Measuring your horse for a blanket is a crucial step in ensuring a proper fit and maximum comfort for your equine companion. A well-fitting blanket will provide the necessary warmth and protection, while a poorly fitted one can cause discomfort, chafing, and even injuries.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of measuring your horse for a blanket, covering everything from essential tools to common mistakes to avoid. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to find the perfect blanket for your horse and keep them cozy and comfortable all season long.
Essential Tools for Measuring Your Horse
Before you start measuring, gather the following tools:
- Measuring tape: A flexible, non-stretchable tape measure is essential for accurate measurements.
- Pencil and paper: To record your horse’s measurements.
- Helper: It’s helpful to have someone assist you, especially when measuring your horse’s length.
How to Measure Your Horse for a Blanket
1. Back Length
Start by measuring the length of your horse’s back. This is the most important measurement, as it determines the overall length of the blanket.
- Positioning: Stand beside your horse and run the tape measure along the topline of the back, from the withers to the tail.
- Tip: It’s best to measure your horse while they are standing square, with their head and neck held high.
2. Chest Girth
The chest girth is the measurement around your horse’s chest, just behind the front legs. It determines the blanket’s width and ensures a snug fit.
- Positioning: Place the tape measure around your horse’s chest, making sure it sits comfortably behind the forelegs.
- Tip: Keep the tape snug but not tight. You should be able to comfortably fit two fingers between the tape measure and your horse’s chest.
3. Neck Length
The neck length is the measurement from the withers to the point where your horse’s neck meets their head. It helps determine the length of the blanket’s neck portion.
- Positioning: Run the tape measure from the withers down the side of your horse’s neck to where it joins the head.
- Tip: A slightly longer neck measurement is always better than one that’s too short.
4. Shoulder Girth
The shoulder girth is the measurement around your horse’s shoulders, just in front of the forelegs. This measurement helps ensure that the blanket fits comfortably over the shoulders.
- Positioning: Place the tape measure around your horse’s shoulders, just in front of the forelegs.
- Tip: Keep the tape snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the tape measure and your horse’s shoulders.
5. Belly Girth
The belly girth is the measurement around your horse’s belly, just behind the front legs. It determines the blanket’s belly flap and ensures a snug fit.
- Positioning: Place the tape measure around your horse’s belly, just behind the front legs.
- Tip: Keep the tape snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the tape measure and your horse’s belly.
6. Leg Length
The leg length is the measurement from the bottom of your horse’s chest to the ground. This measurement helps determine the length of the blanket’s legs and ensures proper coverage.
- Positioning: Measure the distance from the bottom of your horse’s chest to the ground.
- Tip: Be sure to measure the shortest leg length to ensure the blanket covers the entire leg.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Your Horse
- Not measuring while the horse is standing square: This can lead to an inaccurate back length and overall fit.
- Using a stretchy tape measure: A stretchy tape measure will give inaccurate measurements.
- Measuring too tightly: This can cause discomfort and even injury to your horse.
- Not taking into account your horse’s build: Horses with different builds require different blanket sizes. Consider your horse’s conformation, including their chest width, shoulder shape, and belly size.
- Not considering the type of blanket: Different types of blankets have different fit requirements. For example, a turnout blanket needs to be looser than a stable blanket.
Expert Insights: Tips for Measuring Your Horse from Professional Equine Expert, Jessica Miller
“When measuring your horse for a blanket, it’s essential to consider their individual needs and preferences. Some horses may prefer a looser fit, while others prefer a snug fit. Always err on the side of a larger blanket to ensure maximum comfort and freedom of movement.”
FAQs About Measuring Your Horse for a Blanket
Q: What if I’m not sure what size blanket to get?
A: It’s always best to err on the side of a larger size. A slightly larger blanket will provide more comfort and freedom of movement than one that’s too small.
Q: Can I measure my horse myself, or do I need a professional?
A: You can certainly measure your horse yourself, but it’s helpful to have a second pair of hands, especially for measuring the back length.
Q: What if my horse is fidgety?
A: Try to be patient and gentle with your horse. Use treats and praise to keep them calm and cooperative.
Q: How often should I measure my horse for a blanket?
A: You should re-measure your horse for a blanket every year or whenever they lose or gain weight.
Q: What if my horse has a unique build?
A: Some horses have unique builds that can make finding a properly fitted blanket challenging. If you’re having trouble finding a blanket that fits, consider consulting with a professional horse fitter.
Conclusion
Measuring your horse for a blanket is essential to ensure a comfortable and properly fitting garment. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can find the perfect blanket to keep your horse warm, dry, and comfortable. Remember, a well-fitting blanket can make a significant difference in your horse’s overall health and well-being.
For any questions or concerns about finding the right blanket for your horse, you can always contact Justus Horses USA. Our team of experts is available to help you choose the best blanket for your equine companion.