HORSE owners everywhere are starting to think about rugs. With damp air, chilly winds, and unpredictable showers, it’s natural to want to keep horses warm and comfortable - but, as many people should know by now, over-rugging can be just as harmful as leaving them exposed. The key is to rug wisely, based on the individual horse, not just the calendar.

A healthy adult horse grows a thick, oily winter coat that provides excellent insulation and sheds water naturally. Native and hardy breeds such as Connemaras or cobs often thrive unrugged, provided they have shelter, good nutrition and are kept dry. However, finer-skinned breeds like thoroughbreds, clipped horses or older animals will probably need extra protection, particularly during wet and windy spells when they lose heat more quickly.

Our donkeys need rugs or shelter in winter even more because their coats aren’t waterproof like horses’. They evolved for dry climates, so Ireland’s cold, wet weather can make them chilled and prone to illness.

Skin conditions

Rugs come in many weights, from lightweight waterproof ‘rain sheets’ to heavyweight turnout rugs with thick filling. A general guide is to start light and add layers. A rug that’s too heavy can cause sweating, which leads to chills once the horse cools down. It can also cause skin conditions like rain scald or rubs if left damp or dirty.

Checking under the rug daily is essential. Feel behind the shoulder and along the ribs - the horse should feel warm, not hot or clammy. Always remove rugs to allow the coat and skin to breathe, and wash or air them regularly to prevent irritation.

Natural warmth

Ireland’s winter weather varies wildly, so flexibility is key. Adjust rugs according to temperature, workload, and shelter available.

A well-fed horse with access to forage generates natural warmth from digestion, so good feeding and management go hand in hand with rugging. Ultimately, thoughtful observation - not habit - should decide whether your horse really needs that extra layer.