How To Use Fly Rugs
Fly rugs protect from cold weather, biting insects, dirt and dust, and are used only within the confines of the stable. They’re used at night when the temperature drops because it’s more difficult for the horse to stay warm when he’s standing still. When stabled for the day, use a lighter weight blanket, or no blanket at all. Fly rugs are thinner and looser than turnout rugs to allow the horse to sleep or lie down comfortably.
Many people think a rug isn’t needed in the confines of the stable, that it’s better to let the natural coat work. Factors to consider are the temperature, exposure to wind, the age, health, and coat type of the stabled horse. An older horse or a horse that’s been clipped will need a blanket in cold weather.
A horse that is cold stands rigid with his tail down. On very cold nights, you may want to layer blankets. While he’s wearing a blanket, feel the skin under the rug to see if he’s perspiring. If he is, he’s too hot. Remove the blanket or swap to a lighter weight blanket.
To determine the correct size blanket for your horse, measure in a straight line from the chest to the tail. Choose a size closest to your measurement. They’re sold by length using three inch increments. For safety, they’re made to tear and the fasteners to break if the horse becomes entangled.
Fly rugs should cover the horse from neck to tail. Most have fasteners, at the neck, the chest and the tail. They shouldn’t be tight around the chest or neck, and the belly shouldn’t show. The fit should be snug enough to not slip, and loose enough to be comfortable. You should have room to slip your hand between the blanket and the animal and also between the fasteners and the animal. Make sure the animal is comfortable before you leave.
Fly rugs come in a variety of colors, sizes, materials and weights. They’re made of synthetic fabric that is quilted or padded, Most modern day fabrics are breathable so as not to hold moisture when the horse perspires. Fleece rugs can be used as lightweight stable blankets or as an under blanket on cold nights.
Insulation is measured by weight in grams. Lightweight blankets weigh under 150 grams, and are used during chilly weather, usually in the spring and fall. Medium weight blankets weigh 150 to 300 grams and are most used for horses with short coats or ones that have been clipped recently. Heavyweights, used during extreme cold, should weigh 300 to 450 grams. Some heavyweight blankets are designed with a neck cover to protect from the ears back.
Fly rugs should be checked for condition everyday. They should be free of tears with buckles in good working condition. Never leave a wet blanket on your horse, shivering can lead to illness. Also a dirty blanket is irritating to the skin, so have a supply of clean blankets available. Don’t use blankets interchangeably between horses. This can spread bugs and skin infections. Hang a wet blanket on a rug rack until it’s completely dry so it won’t get moldy or rot. Keep clean and dry blankets in a warm and dry place.
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