Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Great Value With Amigo Horse Rugs

By Kendra Hood


Owners are finding that Amigo horse rugs provide excellent value for money. Most horses and ponies have at least one rug and often more. It really depends on how much work the animal is required to do and weather on not they live outside. Many people like to keep their animals stabled in the cold, wet winter months as they stay clean and it cuts down dramatically on grooming time.

A traditional rug was very heavy and practically impossible to keep clean. They were made of an outer shell of thick canvas lined with blanketing material. Although they did the job there were often a number of issues. These included the animal being rubbed on the chest and shoulders from the friction of rough fabric. The rug was also prone to leaks and dampness, leaving many animals cold and uncomfortable.

The Amigo company recognized these problems and knew there was a ready market for a new improved design. So, they went right back to the basics and completely redesigned horse clothing. Gone were the thick heavy fabrics and difficult fasteners, to be replaced by state of the art light weight materials and easy to use closures. These are so much easier to use especially on cold winter nights when fingers are freezing.

One of the best factors about the new style turnout rug is that it is waterproof. It is important to really read the package carefully as some lighter models are merely wind and rain resistant. These are perfect for horses who only goes out in fine weather. However, for an animal who stays out most of the time a truly waterproof rug is necessary. Although they cost a little more it is well worth it to have the peace of mind that the animal is dry and comfortable.

When horses are wet or damp too often they can develop a host of skin conditions. Many of these render the animal unfit for riding and lead to serious disappointment. It is heartbreaking to train for a competition only to miss it because the horse has a fungal infection known as rain rot. Keeping them dry at all times typically eliminates this type of problem.

The traditional front buckles have been replaced with an overlapping Velcro fastener which is easy to use especially on cold days. It also eliminates the pressure that was a problem with the older styles. The rug is held in place by simple straps called surcingles that cross under the horses belly. Again they do not cause any pressure points and are easy to use.

The new Amigo designs also help to prevent stress and pressure on the animal. They are cut in a much more generous way and specially contoured to fit the animal properly. Horses are very active animals and are practically never still. The rug must fit well and not move around too much. Thick Velcro fasteners and well designed leg straps help to keep the rug in place despite rolling and running around the field.

The Amigo brand is available in many local retail outlets. Riders and owners should check with their local tack store. Alternatively they can shop on line and have the new rug shipped to their home or barn.




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