We all know the functionality of a cooler rug. But when, why and how should we really use it? You will find out below! 

Being damp after a training session is unpleasant for both horse and rider and the horse could even get sick as a result of catching a sweat-induced cold. This is unnecessary and easily preventable. After the horse has walked for a while to cool down and catch its breath, it is wise to put on a cooler rug. It is best to remove the saddle when walking the horse, as that’s the area where most of the sweat is produced. Before putting on the cooler, allow the horse to walk for five to ten minutes so it can lose its heat from training. If the cooler is put on immediately after exercising, the horse will develop stiffness and recover less well.

Why do horses sweat?

Some horses will sweat more and quicker than other horses, but they all sweat for a reason. A horse is most comfortable in temperatures between -5 and +15 degrees and their normal body temperature is between 37.5 and 38.2 degrees. When a horse sweats, it means it’s hot. When the sweat evaporates, the horse cools down. It sort of works like an air conditioner.

The use of multiple rugs

The cooler can also be used after the horse has been washed. The cooler will absorb moisture, which, in turn, will speed up the horse’s drying process. If the horse is extremely damp, you may consider puttin

g on two coolers, which will absorb and wick more moisture than a single rug. The bottom rug will remain mostly dry. This allows both blankets to stay on longer than a single cooler.

A cooling blanket in summer

A cooler is not just suitable for the winter period, but can be used in summer as well. When, for example, a horse is transported in a trailer or truck, gusts of cold wind can easily blow past it, which can make a horse lose body heat or develop a stiff back. Covering the horse with a cooler to keep it warm will prevent this and contribute to its comfort.