Can You Blanket a Horse That Is Wet?

In most cases, yes, you can use a blanket to dry a wet horse. On the other hand, if you want to blanket a wet horse, you have to consider a couple of things first. Not only can you blanket a horse that is wet, but also use a blanket to warm it up. However, beware of overheating and other harmful pitfalls. Here is what you need to know before putting a blanket on a wet horse.

Before You Blanket a Wet Horse

For one thing, the golden rule is not to overdo it. Regularly, numerous horse owners put blankets on their horses throughout the year. Yet, during the wrong seasons, some types of blankets can cause horses to overheat.

Blanketing a horse becomes a routine (and is also trendy). So, you can see horses covered in every place and during any time of the year. Even in summer, with light, waterproof, and personalized blankets. With different models of rugs and blankets on the market, you can find products for any situation and weather condition. Including when it rains.

In many cases, blankets can certainly be useful in protecting horses. In fact, they not only help evaporate rainwater but protect the animal from insect bites. From a scientific point of view, however, research on the subject offers few insights. So, it is good to inquire with the seller about the effect of different types of blankets on a horse’s body temperature.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blanketing Horses

After a shower, a horse that spends most of its time in the paddock does not need to be dried. The reason is that the hair is its natural protection. Of course, in this example, I am referring to a horse that is not shorn. Besides, this line of thinking implies that the horse can reach a shelter.

It is good to dry your horse as soon as the work or race ends. Also, whenever you see the formation of sweat. But before removing the saddle, it would be even better to do a cool-down phase. That is, you let the horse walk on a long rein. Perhaps, you could loosen up the girth a little.

After all this, you can put a blanket on the horse. Remember to pick one that is not too heavy. If you don’t, you risk making the horse sweat even more. And that is a big no. Next, walk with him or her for a moment to see how the horse reacts.

Here is a pro tip. You can rub vigorously some straw on the horse’s hair before blanketing. In addition to being a terrific absorbent, dry straw ensures an excellent horse massage.

If the horse is shorn, things get more complicated. Especially when it is raining and the humidity level is high. The ideal would be to let the horse go for a nice roll in a sandy or dusty place whenever possible. Then, you can use a light blanket and stroll in the drizzle. Once dry, I assure you that just a swipe is enough to remove all the dust or sand.

Problems Concerning Dehydration

When it snows or rains, and you are warm at home, it is normal to worry about your horse. Maybe, your first thought is to go and cover the animal with an extra blanket. Sure, a shorn or debilitated horse needs a heavy winter blanket, both in the box and in the paddock. But excessive blanketing can lead to dehydration. It’s always best to talk to your vet on a case-by-case basis if you’re concerned about your horse’s comfort during winter.

Breathable, high-quality blankets for running are quite rare. On balance, test your new purchased blankets every single time. Mostly, horses tend to destroy blankets they do not like. Namely, blankets that make them sweat or itch. Also, grooming can affect how the horse reacts to new blankets greatly.

Lastly, coupled with overheating, dehydration can lead to serious health problems. First off, monitor the water intake. But also that your blanketed, wet horse is not sweating profusely. In fact, excessive stress can easily lead to respiratory problems.