Aerborn 

Bossy Bibs

Countrywide - Rug Cleaning - 0118 940 3770

Derby House

Dinky Rugs

Falpro

Horserugs4u - Leading horse rug website

HorseWare

IV Rugs

Laundry Machine

Masta

Moorland Rider - Horsewear wash-bag

My Blankets - Personalised Rugs 

Nikwax - Stay clean and dry

Pampered Horses - Rug cleaning

Rose of Rugs Rug Cleaning in Binfield, Berks - 07831 411617

Rug-ID - Protect your property

Rug Repairs by Shirley - 0118 901 6922

Shires Equestrian Products

Smallpack - Small Packages - for ponies and children

WeatherBeeta 

Are your rugs clean and ready for winter?

Launderettes - If you are lucky enough to have a local one, take advantage. Add NiKWax when you add your washing powder (in the conditioner section). You now have a clean, waterproofed rug AND it was a cost effective way of cleaning.

RUGS  

Rugs come in all shapes sizes thickness and different purposes. You need to decide what your horse needs and for which reason. There are some basic guidelines for getting the best fit:

• Along the top top of your horse’s back from just in front of his withers to the top of his tail

• From the top of the withers to the centre of the chest

• From the withers to the lowest point of the girth

The correct depth is important. Too short and the horse’s belly isn’t protected, too long and it can hinder his movement. The rug must also allow plenty of chest room to help prevent rubbing when grazing. The rug should sit well forward of the withers to prevent slipping back and causing pressure points.

 What to look for in a turnout rug:

• Leg straps to keep the sides of the rug down when the horse rolls

• The outer layer needs to be waterproof and without seams that can let in wet

• Ideally a drip strip along the bottom of the rug to let rain run off

• A breathable lining allows sweat to wick away from the skin

• Neck covers keep the horse warm in the coldest weather. The fit is essential again to stop it rubbing & slipping

• Tail flaps help prevent draughts

• Shoulder gussets allow the shoulders to move more freely

• Padded withers help prevent rubbing

• Chest fastenings that you can manage when your fingers are cold. Easy to fix into place and of good secure quality

What to look for in a stable rug:

The weight of the rug is important. Ones that are multi layers are ideal for adding extra warmth when needed.

• If you horse tends to rip rugs, a tough outside layer is helpful

• Inside layers must be breathable and anti-static. It must also be washable

• Sectioned and combination rugs are ideal for washing

One important point to remember with any rug – it is possible to over-rug a horse which puts them at risk of dehydration and unnecessary sweating and discomfort.

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