We understand that horse care can sometimes be complex, particularly regarding blanketing. We often ask, "Can I blanket a wet horse?" We're here to help clear up any confusion, guide you toward the best practices, and explain the risks of blanketing a wet horse and what to do in these common scenarios.
Can You Blanket a Wet Horse?
The simple answer to whether you should blanket a wet horse is no. Understanding that a wet horse and a blanket do not mix well is crucial. Suppose you need to blanket a wet horse, such as after a bath if they hadn’t dried all the way, if they got caught in the rain or snow before you had time to throw their blanket on, or if your current horse blankets are not waterproof. Using a cooler instead of a traditional horse blanket is recommended to help dry your horse off first before using a traditional blanket
What Happens if You Blanket a Wet Horse
Covering a wet horse with a regular stable or turnout blanket can lead to several issues, such as temperature changes, skin issues, and rubbing, which is why it is not recommended.
First, the moisture under the blanket can cause the horse's body temperature to drop, leading to discomfort or even hypothermia in colder weather. Second, the damp environment created by the wet fur and the blanket can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, potentially causing skin conditions like rain rot. Lastly, a wet blanket can chafe against the horse's skin, causing sores and irritation. It's also worth noting that blanketing a wet horse could lead to a longer drying time as the moisture gets trapped under the blanket instead of evaporating into the air. This could mean your horse stays damp longer than necessary, which is uncomfortable and can lead to more serious health issues. Your blanket will become wet, which can take a while to dry during cold or freezing temperatures.
Risk of Overheating
Blanketing a wet horse with a non-breathable or heavy blanket can trap heat and moisture, leading to overheating or the horse's inability to regulate its body temperature properly. If your horse becomes overheated and sweaty, it will become uncomfortable and could increase your risk of health issues, colic, skin conditions, or bacterial growth.
Risk of Chilling
Putting a blanket on a wet horse can also cause it to lose body heat, such as if the blanket is too thin. This can lead to chilling and potential health issues such as hypothermia, muscle pain, and colic.
Skin Issues
Blanketing a wet horse is just asking for those yucky skin irritations, fungal infections, or rain rot if moisture is trapped under a blanket for extended periods. This can cause significant skin infections, patches of hair loss, and even the need for a vet visit to get an infection under control.
Best Practices for Blanketing When Your Horse is Wet
After Riding or Sweating
If your horse gets sweaty, either from running around in turnout or after a ride, using a cooler can help speed up drying time by pulling moisture away from its coat and keeping it warm enough to prevent a chill. There are a variety of cooler styles and materials that are great for having on hand in those moments when you need to blanket your horse but have to wait for it to dry first and want to hurry things along!
Caught in the Rain or Snow
If your horse was caught outside in the rain or snow, maybe they didn’t have a blanket on or their current blanket isn’t waterproof, you will want to ensure you can help them dry before putting a blanket on. Using a cooler or anti-sweat sheet can help speed up drying time. You will want to be sure their coat is fully dry before you put any type of blanket on them. Upgrading your current blanket to a waterproof turnout blanket is a great way to ensure they stay dry and warm next time they get caught in wet weather.
Managing a Wet Horse in Cold Weather
When temperatures drop, it can be tricky to dry your horse and make sure they stay warm. Using a cooler to speed up the drying time if your horse has gotten wet, either from rain or snow or from sweat after exercise, is a key step before they can have any type of blanket put on after getting wet. Blanketing a wet horse, as we’ve explained above, can cause numerous health issues. During cold weather, having a good quality waterproof turnout blanket is a great way to ensure they stay dry outside, as well as a cooler for those times when you need to dry them off before blanketing.
Types of Blankets for a Wet Horse
When caring for wet horses, regular blankets simply don't cut it. That's where the cooler blanket comes in. Designed specifically for this purpose, horse coolers are perfect for drying off while keeping your horse warm. Made from materials like wool or fleece, they effectively absorb moisture and promote evaporation. They provide comprehensive coverage, including the neck and sometimes even the head. These moisture-wicking blankets are the go-to solution, whether after a workout, a bath, or a walk in the rain. They're also great during cold weather to prevent your horse from catching a chill as they dry off. At Schneiders, we offer a variety of coolers in different styles and materials to keep your horse comfortable and dry.
However, using a cooler requires caution. Be sure to monitor your horse to prevent overheating. Once dry, remember to remove the blanket and never leave it on an unattended horse overnight, as it can cause tangles if the horse rolls or lies down. Lastly, it's important to understand that every horse is unique. While some may prefer a cooler, others might be more comfortable air-drying. Knowing your horse's preferences and behaviors is key to maintaining their health and happiness.
In conclusion, blanketing a wet horse with a regular blanket is not advisable, but a cooler can be a safe and effective solution. As always, every horse is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Observing your horse's behavior and comfort level is essential when using any blanket or sheet. At Schneiders, we aim to help you provide the best care for your horse. If you have any questions about our products or need further advice on horse care, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!
