As we come into winter it’s a good time to discuss what is expected, and appreciated, regarding yours horses’ rugs and the farrier.
Firstly, most of us prefer to work on horses without their rugs. It means that we are able to get closer to the horse and therefore keep their legs further underneath them. Horses are generally happier the closer to their body their feet remain while we trim or shoe them.
If your horse’s rug is wet, it needs to come off. I’m sure you can imagine how gross we feel when we are sitting in the car, damp all over, from being up against wet rugs.
If your horse has numerous rugs on, they need to come off. Trying to work around 7 or 8 layers of rugs is near impossible.
If your horse doesn’t stand quietly, the rugs need to come off. I want no excuses for a horse to not stand quietly while I trim it. I want them to be able to move around freely and I need to be able to feel them move before they do.
And personally, any rug with belly straps needs to be removed. Unlike my male counterparts, I tend to find I always get my pony tail caught in belly straps and it’s not a good look.
While each farrier will have their preferences, if you’re in doubt then unrug your horse for their appointment. That way, there is one less thing to worry about.
Why don’t you chat to your farrier to find out what their preference is at this time of year?