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Discussion on Blankets
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 12:12 pm:
I read the article about blanketing. My horses NEVER have been blanketed and I don't intend on blanketing them either...However I would like to have one on hand for just in case. When I might need a blanket it would probably be VERY cold, windy, and wet. I do worry about Flash when the weather gets extreme, which it does every year at least for a few weeks (we're talking winchills of -60) I have caught her shivering before, which I don't think is a good idea for her age(30). She is in good weight for her age 6 bcs, with a decent appetite.
I do have a couple of heavy weight coolers, one is fleece, the other is terry cloth. In a situation where I MIGHT need this am I better off having a heavy weight, or lighter with layers???
I am going to get a weather proof one regardless. Fortunately my horses take close to the same size so it could be used on any of them for just in case.
I've been meaning to get one for years, but never have, last year I wished I had. Any suggestions on what would be best for an "emergency" blanket?
Thanks
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 1:05 pm:
Diane,
This winter I will be blanket free also. I usually do blanket my race horses, just to keep their hair down and make it a bit easier to deal with on race days, but I will not be racing this winter so therefore no blankets. When I do blanket, I use a waterproof Weathabeeta blanket with a Sleazy underneath to protect my horses shoulders from rubbing. I've had mine for several years.
My Weathabeeta blankets seem to stand up to a lot of abuse and only occasionally do I need to make a repair.
Rachelle
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 2:48 pm:
Thanks Rachelle, I'm wondering more about what weight would be most appropriate. I do not intend to use one unless necessary, it is going to be more of an "emergency" blanket. Durability at this point isn't really a concern. Right now I am more concerned with comfort and rather a mid-weight blanket or heavy duty would fit into my scenario more appropriately.
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 3:24 pm:
Diane,
I wouldn't call these super duper heavy weight blankets, but I have had the occasion to stick my hand underneath them to check for dryness and warmth on some pretty nasty wet and cold days. They seem to do a pretty good job.
I am not sure you want something really heavy, just something to slow down and keep out the wind, cold and wet.
Rachelle
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Member:
vickiann
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 3:31 pm:
Diane --
It is a good idea to have some emergency blanket options with horses that are older.
I have heard stories of elder horses that died when their system did not react efficiently to weather like you described (cold, wet, windy), with the body temperature dipping too low.
Shivering helps a horse warm up, as does running around. Being able to get out of the wind is vital, and sometimes when turned out with others, some horses are forced to take the least sheltered locations because of herd dynamics.
I have blanketed Lance some nights because of shivering and because he never grows much of a coat. He likes his blankets. This year his coat is thicker than usual so I am going to monitor him closely and try not to blanket.
I like the blankets that have detachable neck covers and that are water and wind proof.
As to what weight, it really depends upon the circumstances.
I have unlined and waterproof (Rambo, I think -- will check) that can be used against wind and rain, but also a much heavier one that I think is the same brand as Rachelle mentioned (Weatheabeata) that is waterproof but also is good and thick and warm.
I like the blankets that are described as being for "turnout" and it is especially nice to have one that secures under the belly to keep the cold from blowing up underneath. Also, leg bands that snap easily into place but can be removed and replaced if necessary are nice.
You want something that is easy to put on and off, easy to care for and fits properly, so be sure to measure as directed.
There are also blankets that are for keeping the horse inside in the stall but I feel like those labeled as being for turn out are less likely to be accident prone, no matter the circumstances.
I have not found that it works very well to use a slip-on liner underneath a lighter weight blanket, as the liners don't always stay in place well and one morning I discovered Lance's liner had slipped all the way around and he was walking on it. This of course would be less of a problem if the horse was stalled.
I also tried placing a lighter weight wool dress blanket (Horsewear/Rambo) underneath a turnout blanket and that worked but rubbing seems to become more of an issue with two such layers. The wool Horsewear blankets that I have are really nice because they can be machine washed AND dried though they are not for turnout but are great for traveling and camping when there is no rain in the forecast.
I think that my heavyweight blanket can be machine washed also.
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 4:05 pm:
Diane,
I am not real informed on blankets but what I have is 2 heavy canvas ones (waterproofed)..don't fit real well around neck, I think you can get them for around $35.99 (or used to get them for that price) and a "denim" one, all 3 have fleecy linings.
I also have one that is a lighter weight cooler, and I use that one the most.
I have no advice as to which one is best for turnout, but what I have found to work for me is if a horse is left out and got wet & cold (I didn't have stall doors open, or just the lone man out) I just put a blanket on long enough for them to stop shivering, and in 30-60 minutes I take it off. Of course I've stalled them by then.
Because they are not used to being blanketed, I don't leave them on any longer than necessary.
I have put an old bed blanket, one of the open weave cotton ones, on a very wet horse first, then take that off after it's soaked up some moisture. Of course I don't leave that unattended.
I can check and see if there is a tag on my lighter one, seems I remember it as being waterproof, and breathable, and some HA folks thought it was a good all around choice when I asked about buying a blanket a few years ago.
In my experience with horses used to being out of doors, you don't need much to help them stay warm on those rare brutally cold days.
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 4:11 pm:
Here's the link from my post:
https://www.horseadvice.com/horse/messages/3/136743.html
It may not be what you want as I did buy if for drying out, and keeping a horse warm who has gotten sweated up in the winter, but I do use it for warmth for a chilled horse too.
Curious to see what you decide on, and others suggest as I've wondered also about getting another "GOOD" blanket just in case.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 4:49 pm:
Angie I have the coolers that work well for that and have used them in a pinch, they seemed to work well. I am now leaning towards more of a stable blanket because if I have to put a blanket on they won't be outside. When I worked at the boarding barn they all blanked their horses, for ease for us people working there most were stalled and turned out in the same blanket...I can't say I liked the comfort factor with them...A couple people had stable blankets, that we had to switch to turnout blankets, they seemed so much softer and comfortable. Actually if it was dry out they could go out in their stable blankets, with this in mind I am leaning towards a stable blanket. Like you this is not for every day it is for "just in case" Something like this
https://www.bigdweb.com/detail.aspx?id=80370
One little mare had a wool lined baker blanket, wonder if they make them anymore, it was really nice, but I believe they are quite expensive.
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 5:21 pm:
Diane,
I don't like the way those blankets fit around the withers and the shoulders ( on the demo models). With a closed front you can't adjust it. Why not just go with a regular Baker blanket as long as she will not be turned out in it.
What I have done with my Baker Blankets is put a piece of tape material from one side to the other under the tail to keep the blanket from blowing up from the wind and to keep the blanket in place if they roll.
Rachelle
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 5:31 pm:
Rachelle do you have the heavy wool lined baker blanket? I really did like that, we turned that mare out in it when the sun was shining. It wasn't as "stiff" as other blankets. I've been searching for them to see if I could find one. Still looking
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 5:41 pm:
Diane, You might look in the Schneider Catalogue or on line. I love their blankets and they are not terribly expensive. The fit well according to size. Hug blankets are good too.
Remember when blanketing you will flatten the air that normally "insulates" the horse so go with one heavy enough to make up the difference.
Aren't you glad you asked for opinions??
Hugs, Shirl
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 6:01 pm:
I'm also a fan of Schneider's. With their adjustable shoulder they'll fit any horse. If you only want a blanket for emergencies, they used to have a combo that would imo be perfect. There was a lighter, waterproof outer blanket, and a heavier stable type blanket, and a sheet. If they don't have this combo, they sell liner blankets for about $35. These will attach to the outer blanket by the leg straps. You can get a fleece sheet inexpensively also. If the horse gets wet, the fleece will wick the moisture off the horse and help keep the horse dry. You can use the fleece sheet with the liner and the water proof blanket or use any combo of them.
Hug makes the stable blanket and the waterproof sheet which make a good pair also. If it's really cold, use both, or just use one. If you use just a stable blanket be sure the horse doesn't get wet; it might be worse off than with no blanket at all. When it wasn't real cold, but "iffy weather" I had Beau in a light weight wool lined waterproof, breathable sheet which was perfect when it wasn't real cold but was windy or off and on showers.
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 6:03 pm:
I like using a medium weight turnout rug. I think a MW would work for you especially since you already have a couple of coolers to layer underneath if she needed.
I like turn out rugs cuz they are tougher. especially for the other horses that like to try to pull them off their buddies or mommas
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 6:18 pm:
Diane,
I did a Google Search on 'heavy wool lined baker blanket' and came up with a used '76' blanket on Craigs list. There is email contact information available.
This ad was posted on 10-23-2009, so I am not sure if this is still out there.
I wish there was a picture.
Rachelle
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Member:
simonem
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 6:19 pm:
Diane,
I think that since you only want it as an "emergency" blanket, and since you have an older mare, you should probably just get a heavy weight, maybe even one of the combo blankets with a neck attachment. If she needs immediate warmth, you'll want to give her as much coverage as possible, I think. I would rather be over prepared for a horse that can't regulate body temperature than underprepared with a thin little blanket. But then I'm kind of a worry wart about my horse
I've owned several Weatherbeetas, Rambos and other Horseware Ireland lines (Rhino, Amigo) and they have held up extremely well. The Rhino and Amigo lines are cheaper, but I think they hold up just as well. A heavy weight (especially a combo neck cover/blanket) can be kind of pricey though, especially since it's not going to be a daily blanket. Maybe you could look for one on ebay?
Simone
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 7:27 pm:
Thanks for all the suggestions I never really have been interested much in blankets, but I think it is a good idea to have one on hand at this point.
Rachelle thanks! I will have to measure her again it's been awhile, but I think a 76 would be too big, remember she is a pony. Around 13hh, long bodied tho, and swayed backed. I think something like wool would fit her "body" better. I also like the sounds of the combo Sara & Simc mentioned.
Wouldn't you know I threw my Schneiders catalog away...didn't even look at it
I am really leaning towards a belly band, I worry about Flash getting tangled up with the belly straps and she has enough on her hands just getting up and down without interference.. And then there is the open or closed front UGGHHHH. No wonder I never wanted to blanket! Still looking! Found Schneiders online...no combos!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 7:37 pm:
OHHHH how bout this one...it's kind of ugly in color, but we are not about pretty around here
Would this work???
https://www.sstack.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=7918&itemType=PRODU CT&iMainCat=91&iSubCat=549&iProductID=7918
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 7:51 pm:
They do sell combos at dover...some are 1/2 off right now. but still pricey.
L
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 7:53 pm:
OOO I like the schneiders one you just posted. its nice
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 - 10:09 pm:
I would just comment that most of the blankets at Dover don't feet the smaller horses as well as the Schneiders. StateLine is a great source, but I've had trouble with blanket fit there,too. The smaller rounder horses seem to need a different cut than most of the blankets sold at both those sites.
If they still make them, I just happened to think about the thinsulate lined ones; they're light but very warm, esp. with a liner under them.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:52 am:
Sara that's what I liked about the schneiders too, It does say it fits arabs, QH well. Flash is probably really 13.2hh at the wither, but her old back is swaying pretty good. The reviews on the blanket I posted says it stays put well. I really like the thoughts of a belly band, but not sure about the closed front. I'll have to look more tonight when I get home and see if I can find a decent belly band one without a closed front. OR do all belly band blankets have closed fronts? The Baker Blanket is still on my mind too. I love shopping for horse stuff, but not sure I like blanket shopping real well...
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 10:04 am:
I've been told by someone that's used Baker blankets for years, that the new ones are made as well as the old ones. Also, they are made more for the TB type body. I have a 74" heavy Baker sheet that I bought at a consignment shop. I really like it; it's an older one in very good shape, but it doesn't fit any of my horses, even the stallions one of which is 16H. Schneider's used to make an open front with a belly band; they also made one with a detachable belly band. I haven't shopped for a blanket in a while, so don't know if they still do. I've never had a problem with a closed front; you just have the horse haltered and go very slowly, rolling it up kind of like putting on a stocking when putting it over the head the first few times. I never undo the open front ones. Of course, my horses are so used to blankets that they stick their necks out and try to help get their head through the opening. They all love their blankets and would put them on theirselves if they could. And no..none of them are spoiled!
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 11:09 am:
Diane the blanket you linked to would probably work well for an emergency. With as cold as your temps are I would go with the heavy weight like you have chosen. I also like that this blanket is rated for turnout rather than just stable use, the stable blankets are nice and soft but I like to be prepared .. odds are some combination of events would require you to have your mare turned out just when you need the blanket!
Our horses all wear waterproof sheets for regular turnout in the winter due to our rainy climate; we use mid-weight turnouts for really cold stormy weather which for us is only in the 30s and only a couple weeks a year.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 2:46 pm:
WELLL the reason I kind of would prefer the open front...my imagination OR preparedness OR OCD.
For some reason I can picture a horse being down and with a closed front it would be hard to get on or off. I already ran the scenario thru my head of having to cut it off., OR an emergency where the horse is down, at least you could lay an open front over them... am I being a little over the top??
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 4:14 pm:
what is an open/closed front? nevermind found one.
FWIW Ive always used a open front.
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Member:
canter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 4:26 pm:
Diane, I've slipped a blanket over my (and other) horses heads more times than I can count. However, Practical Horseman had an article last month about blanketing and they strongly cautioned against doing it. Gave me pause to think and I have used the buckles since then (that's the type I've always bought - buckles at the chest so that the blanket was more adjustable). It just takes one moment or one situation or one accident that leaves us with regrets...so you thinking ahead and envisioning the worse case scenario is not OCD, you're just being prepared
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 4:35 pm:
I have always got open front blankets because we use them for turnout and when they are filthy it seems easier to fold the blanket up while still on the horse and keep all the dirt in. It also allows for a little more customization of the fit.
I did once find a neighbor's horse with their lower jaw caught in the front strap, running around the pasture backwards in a panic .. it could have been a disaster had I not seen him. So if you do opt for straps, make sure they are done up snug.
I am OCD about making sure blanket straps are done up snugly anyway, it drives me crazy to see horses with their belly straps swinging a foot below their tummy. I just envision legs getting caught...
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 4:51 pm:
 Shanon your neighbors horse sounds like something that would happen to me, one reason I would never blanket 24/7.
Fran, No I am not OCD LOL thanks for the vote of confidence!
I can't tell for sure if all the belly band blankets have a closed front, I wish I wouldn't have thrown all my horse catalogs out!
Anyone have a Shcneiders catalog with that blanket in it??? It seems to list an open front as an option...kind of, maybe the catalog has more detail?
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:22 pm:
Diane,
I just looked through my latest Schneider Catalogue and for some strange reason all the belly band blankets have the closed front, except for the "Jr. Size" ones. Odd.
I will check again in case I missed one. One of the girls at the barn has a belly band blanket with the open front. When I go tonight I will find out the brand. Very nice, well fitted also.
Shirl
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Member:
npo33901
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:26 pm:
This winter I'll be leaving my horses without blankets (at night) .
Out temp. in winter nights don't go under 20 - 21 F.
But I don't know what to do when they come wet in the evening and it's still raining . Shall I just close them in the stables as wet as they are ? If I don't lock them up, they will be standing in the rain the whole night and it worries me .
Do you put water proof sheets/blankets during a day, when there is a heavy rain ?
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:31 pm:
Diane, Aha, I did miss some. Front of catalogue. When you open their web, ask for Storm Shield VTEC Euro V-Free Turnout #17125 is the heavy 380 grams fiber fill, 17126 med (220 grams)They also have a neck cover.
Shirl
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:33 pm:
Anna Marie,
One of the girls at the barn uses a rain sheet for such times. Then when they come in they are dry and she can either blanket or not, depending on the temps.
Shirl
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:38 pm:
Thanks for looking Shirl! I DID see just that one on the website...BUT with further investigation, Euro fit is for bigger horses like TB's and warmbloods, she's fat but not that bad
I would appreciate it if you could find out about the one that the girl uses at your barn...if it isn't one of those big type horses!
THANK YOU!
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 5:53 pm:
The Big Fella blankets have closed fronts also, but would be too big for your horses. Love the one Shirley is talking about, not really cheap tho. Schneider's does guarantee their blankets however.
Notice a lot of the Schneiders come in "Euro-fit" and regular fit. The Euro-fit ones have a more upright shoulder and smaller neck opening and are designed for TBs, WBs, and such.
There's another one that has a buckle front and bellyband, it's on p.5 of the 2009 fall catalogue, and is "Briton Fitted V-Free" The heavy weight one is $129. It's wind and water proof and breathable. And, it comes in a longer DrOp one, too, which comes down a little further on the legs. The New Briton Original is ten dollars less, but am not sure what the difference is between the two Britons. Both have open fronts.
So, the V-Tek Liberty style, V-Tek Marathon, and the Briton all come with open fronts.
I don't use leg straps with the belly band blankets and have never had them slip around. I dislike messing with the leg straps.
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Member:
sodmonst
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 6:01 pm:
Diane,
In your position, I would get a medium weight turnout blanket (waterproof & breathable) and get a liner too. That would give you a range of choices. Schneiders does have nice blankets, the one you chose looks great.
I too know about cold having grown up in North Dakota, and believe that when a horse has a natural coat, it usually does better without a blanket. With that said, I blanket my horse in cold, wet, windy weather. I'd more quickly let my horse out on a sunny, below zero day than on a windy, rainy 32 degree day. Did you know that early in ND's history ranchers raised remounts for the army because cattle didn't survive as well in the harsh winters?
https://www.sstack.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=2640&itemType=PRODU CT&iMainCat=91&iSubCat=340&iProductID=2640
https://www.sstack.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=2638&itemType=PRODU CT&iProductID=2638
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Member:
npo33901
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 6:15 pm:
Shirley, thank you. Rain is a pain in the neck !! All the mud to go with it . AM.
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 6:41 pm:
Anna Marie, another tip about rain sheets.. when you bring the horses in in the evening, if you leave the sheet on the horse for a couple hours it will have a better chance of drying out for use the next day. Otherwise you are faced with a cold wet muddy blanket in the morning! (unless of course you are lucky enough to have somewhere heated to hang them to dry!)
Suzie that's an interesting little factoid .. I guess Dr. O is right horses really *aren't* hot house flowers!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 16, 2009 - 8:00 pm:
Thanks for the many good suggestions,and for looking them up for me Sara and Shirl. I'll shop around a little more this weekend and think about it, NOW I'm kind of thinking the medium weight would be a better idea . I do have a polar fleece cooler that fits her. I'm hoping I won't even need one!
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Member:
npo33901
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 4:17 am:
Shannon, I don't cover my horses - but if they come in wet,very vet, should I put a drying sheet (fleece ) to dry them up a bit and lock them up ( if it is a heavy rain) ? And of corse, if they are muddy ( they LOVE to roll in the mud) , should I cover them or should I leave them. - me mummy is worried - .
I bring wet blankets to the bathroom to dry - my husband loves it ...ha ha...
And I heard that if you blanket horses, their hair is compacted and doesn't stand up ( when cold) to give better insulaltion. Is it true ?
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 6:25 am:
OK well the wind was blowing so hard all night I couldn't sleep, so shopped for blankets. This is the one I settled on, I believe this is an open front and Sara listed it as one I believe.
Flash will enjoy the girlish color
Looks and sounds comfy,?
https://www.sstack.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=9159&itemType=PRODU CT&iMainCat=91&iSubCat=573&iProductID=9159
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 7:15 am:
Oh and hubby is on vacation, I think you know I have to hide everything I buy for the horses So I have a week to reconsider if anyone has better suggestions. Will be sitting by the curb waiting for UPS! My hidey hole is getting pretty full.
He's so funny when I bring out my new stuff to use he'll say when did you get that...OHHH I have had it for years, just never used it
He does know better, but isn't 100% sure so doesn't say anything!
BTW he does the same thing to me with hunting stuff and I am never 100% sure he hasn't had it so can't say anything!
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 7:47 am:
Diane,
I do that too. As long as he does not see the box of whatever goodies I buy, he doesn't know when I bought it.
Be careful though, I used to try and hide horses from him too. When a new one showed up, I used to tell him it belonged to my best friend and she used to tell her husband it belonged to me.
We used to rehab them and find homes for them as riding horses.
Rachelle
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 8:20 am:
Rachelle that is a fib I must remember as I continue down my path of plotting and scheming!
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 8:37 am:
Gals, that made my day! All the methods you use to hide the horsey stuff!
My last major horse order was for vet/medical supplies. I ordered vet wrap, gauze rolls, some chill wraps, assorted ointments, some bleed stop powder, & more. I told my husband it was for the medical box in the tack room, which is there for all of us. He wasn't convinced but when I reminded him that he's almost cut his thumb off THREE TIMES the last 2 years, (His new nickname is "Dum Thum" hee hee) he didn't argue any more.
And we do raid horse stuff for him, our son who is always under a truck it seems, our daughter getting hurt in basketball.
And like Diane, I plan those purchases around his work schedule so when the guy in brown shows up, he's not at home!
And I don't know what he buys for hunting, and don't want to know.
Never tried hiding a horse, but I might try that just to see how long before he notices!
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 8:54 am:
ahahahaha
I do that too
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 9:34 am:
I have two things going for me with the man in brown. One, I'm most often here alone and can snatch the box quickly. Two, we have a lot of deliveries with UPS/Fed Ex/Freightliner? for the business, soooooooooooooo, it could be for the business and not horse stuff. Theroretically... AND, the burn barrel ashes hide a lot of evidence.
Angie and Diane, my hubby has a ton of hunting stuff too and that stuff isn't cheap...I know for a fact there have been two new guns, new scope, and something for his bow the past few months. Not too mention ammo (NEVER can have enough of that stockpiled apparently) and camo gear. He doesn't always see the latest Cabelas' catalog as I get the mail. Which is handy for when horsey bills come also. The man hasn't seen a check or signed his own name for many years. And further, he would just as soon NOT see the paperwork. Which works perfectly for my scheming plan of late.
Keep those ideas coming girls.
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Member:
canter
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 10:07 am:
See? There's an advantage to boarding your horse: a fellow boarder has all her purchases sent directly to the barn...there's not the slightest bit of evidence to worry about!
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 10:37 am:
Anne-Marie, if a horse is well fed and has protection from the wind, they can withstand a lot of cold weather. When we first moved to where we are now, I worries myself sick over the horses as we didn't have shelters up or a barn. My husband put plywood up in the corners of the fences so the horses could get out of the wind, and we fed them extra hay (good quality.) I would go out and check them during a storm and when I felt close to their skin under the hair, they were dry and warm. Our horses had come from a cold climate, though, and had very long winter coats.
Yes, the horses' hair does have to be able to fluff up to keep them warm. They grow long outer hairs and a fluffier under coat. The hair traps the air, like feathers and down on a bird, and that keeps them warm. If the hairs are mashed flat they loose their insulating capability. If the horses get caked with mud and it does't come off either by the horse rolling or by you brushing, the mud will prevent the hair from being able to fluff. If you blanket a horse you need to replace the warmth they would have from the hair.
Very young horses sometimes need help staying warm, as do sick or thin horses and old horses. Horses that are healthy and of good weight do o.k. if they are out of the wind and are fed really good. However, if they have shelters to get under and can stay dry, it's better for them and you don't have to feed them as heavily. A horse uses energy to produce heat and the hair helps to hold the heat in. The horse uses food to produce energy. The more heat the horse has to produce, the less food that goes to keeping the horse fit.
It would be good to have a waterproof, blanket like Diane is buying for "emergencies."
I think if you do a search on HA under "Horsecare" in the bar at the left of the page, you can find a lot of good information.
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 10:54 am:
LOL you guys crack me up. We board horses so I can always use the excuse 'it's for the business' or claim that whatever I've ordered is for a boarder's horse!
And yes Anna Marie, what Sara said
When horses come in wet I do sometimes put a fleece cooler on them and lock them in for a while to dry out. When we lived in cold snowy climates I never blanketed, but where we live now it rains heavily and wet hair has no insulating properties, so I almost always use a waterproof sheet. Some of our horses aren't smart enough to come in out of the rain!
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 1:18 pm:
Anne Marie, if the horses are cold and shivery, you can dry them off with towels or put a cooler on them like Shannon does. If they are't shivering and our inside they'll be fine unless it is REALLY cold and then they should have a cooler and then blanket. If you have an old wool blanket, it will work great as a cooler. You can sew some cord or heavy ribbon on it to help hold it in place. I bought several such blankets at an army surplus store and they worked great. The loosely woven acrylic or cotton blankets work too, but the wool will dry the horse and keep it warm at the same time.
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Member:
npo33901
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 3:30 pm:
Thanks , girls, I just want them to be "natural" - just like me, not wearing any make up........
I do have some blankets. The fitting is not perfect, but will do .
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 3:55 pm:
Diane,
Back to our "conversation" yesterday RE: belly band blankets. My friend got her blanket through Horse.com AKA Country Supply. If you do a search there on "belly band blankets" you should end up with a couple. The one she has is beq65 that is a size 69 their smallest. Very inexpensive yet hers is a really good blanket, not overly heavy but good. Over 200 fill I believe.
Shirl
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 4:16 pm:
Found it Shirl THANKS, that is kind of what I had in mind in the beginning. HMMMMMM looks more comfy than the other one I picked, does it fit well through the shoulders? Tho Flash really isn't real wide through the chest.
ANDDD water proof really doesn't matter honestly, if she has to have a blanket on she won't be outside or in with the other horses. I do like that one too! Thanks for taking time to look for me
I'm putting it in here so I can look back and forth... decisions, decisions
Or if anyone wants to voice their opinion
https://www.horse.com/Defender-420-Denier-Honeycomb-Blanket-w-Belly-Band-BEQ65.ht ml
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 5:58 pm:
Diane, seems to fit well all over. I didn't mean that my friend uses a size 69, just used the item # to get you into the section. Sorry. She is using hers on a TB and it fits well. Think hers is a 74 or 76.
I take it off every morning for her and it seems to be a good buy/fit.
Shirl
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Member:
maggienm
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Posted on Thursday, Nov 19, 2009 - 8:20 am:
Diane, Since you are looking for a blanket for an emergency type situation I agree a neck blanket is a good idea.
The Schneiders usually have a neck blanket for any of their turnout blankets.
I didn't see that the Defender had a neck blanket.
I do like the way it fits around the neck.
Situations are hard to predict but again thinking of an emerg type situation if your mare was hurt or just not up to par and you wanted to blanket you might also want her to have some limited turnout.
A blanket designed to protect from the elements can also be used in a stable whereas a stable blanket will only be good outdoors if she is by herself and there is limited wind and certainly no rain.
Just a thought.
I use open fronts but always put over the head. Good thinking about using open fronts incase the horse is hurt and you can't get them over the head.
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Member:
maggienm
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Posted on Thursday, Nov 19, 2009 - 8:55 am:
Diane, any idea what size you need?
Have you looked on ebay?
Schneiders has several on sale that might work for you.
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Thursday, Nov 19, 2009 - 11:04 am:
You can also buy the neck warmers and hoods that attach to blankets and if you're going to leave one on for turnout beware that I had two horses whose manes got rubbed out where the neck portion of the blanket hit their manes. These weren't Schnieders blankets, I don't remember, but they might have been Rambos. I assume it's because they were cut for horses built differently than QH and Arabs.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Thursday, Nov 19, 2009 - 7:01 pm:
I haven't measured her yet, this weekend I am going to. I'm still looking I got a catalog from Big Debs today and it had exactly what I wanted it was a combo with hood, good price, belly band...I was getting excited until I saw it was a closed front!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Thursday, Nov 19, 2009 - 8:39 pm:
This one looks VERRY interesting, I like the quick clips HMMMMM anyone have one of these?
https://www.statelinetack.com/item/defender-premier-quick-clip-blanket/SLT900590/
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 7:08 am:
I like the looks of that one Diane. I don't have one, but if it's anything like the Defender fly masks, it should be a decent blanket.
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 2:06 pm:
I have a different brand that has snaps on the front and I love it...no hassleing with the buckles.
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 2:40 pm:
I haven't tried this blanket; it looks good. One things I've learned the hard way, is to measure the length of the neck from center of chest to wither, or center of back of the neck, depending on type o blanket you are getting; then measure the neck opening on the blankets. Some of the neck openings, esp. the ones that aren't cut back and don't have a lot of adjustment in them, are so huge on lighter/smaller horses that it could be dangerous.
Another caution, I bought a great looking blanket that I loved with not only buckles in the front, but velcro closure with a flap under the buckles. It worked wonderfully, until the velcro became encrusted with dirt and shavings, then the buckles on their own left a big gap in the front and rubbed on the horse's chest. I had another that closed just with heavy duty velcro, and I wound up sewing it closed in front as I kept finding it worn like a skirt around the back of the horse.
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Member:
vickiann
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 3:23 pm:
The Rambo turn-outs that I have feature a neck velcro system under the neck where one piece of velcro from one side inserts inside of two pieces coming from the other side. Then there are three small slide in, slide out buckles (you just pinch them) that go over the top of the velcro sandwich and that works great to preserve the velcro.
This blanket also has a large velcro at the center of the chest with two easy metal buckles on top of that, which hook into a sturdy metal loop there.
Cashel sells a velcro cleaning brush but I've never had any trouble with these velcros becoming soiled on account of the ingenious way that it is designed.
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 3:37 pm:
Hi folks,
Just a warning about blankets with the snaps and not buckles. Make sure the rounded side of the snap faces out and the opening of the snap faces in.
I had someone working for me that somehow got the snap twisted when she put the blanket on. The mare that was wearing it started rubbing the front of the blanket on her gate and wound up getting the snap open and caught on the gate ( I was out jogging another horse). When I came in the mare was wearing the gate around her neck, plastered to the back of the stall scared to death and the girl was in the stall trying to keep the mare from killing herself. After that little episode I had a really hard time getting that mare to walk in and out of a stall with any type of gate on it.
Rachelle
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 3:39 pm:
Flash isn't real tall, but she is built heavier than a typical arab, she has Welsh in her too which adds bulk, plus she is a little tubby
I think that stateline one is the one I'm going to try if they have her size...still got to measure for that. I'll let you know how I like it I'll have to see how lont it takes to deliver it and plan around hubbys schedule, I think he is off week after next for deer hunting again, hope he don't get another head to hang
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 3:43 pm:
Rachelle I was posting the same time as you...GOOD advice, horses seem to figure out ways to do something to themselves with just about anything.
I am all hot wire, or wood so don't think that would be a problem for me, but will definitely keep an eye on it, IF I have to use it.
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Member:
vickiann
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 5:34 pm:
WOW! Thanks for that information, Rachelle.
Goes to prove that if there is any possible way for some horses to get themselves into trouble, they will manage to do so.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 5:47 pm:
OK blanket gurus I measured Flash and I came up with a little over 70in, I see the Defender blanket comes in 72 in. Would that be ok?
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 6:09 pm:
Diane on a blanket that runs true to size I would order the next size up (72 as you say).
However your best bet would be to talk to customer service and find out if they run large or small or what.
I usually buy Weatherbeetas and they run a full size large, and are still roomy. When I order the 'actual' size I would need the horses swim in them and the belly straps are too long.
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 10:40 pm:
Rachelle, just amazing what they can manage to do, isn't it? I had a similar experience involving a water bucket!
Diane, my 14.5, 860lb mare wears a 72". Sometimes it varies from mfg.; you might ask if they run small or not. And, if you wash them, even without putting them in the dryer, a lot of them shrink up a little. And, you know to measure from middle of chest to middle of tail, right? Just asking!
Next time I need a new blanket, I'm going to talk to you. You're sure doing your research. I've just learned through trial and error. Much smarter your way.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Nov 20, 2009 - 11:00 pm:
According to the reviews on the blanket..most of them says it runs a little small to order up a size, one review even says 2 sizes
Sara I did double check on how to measure and I did it right AND 3 times got the same measurement each time...she is a little long backed, it came to just a tiny bit over 70 in. so the 72 in should be ok I would think???
My polar fleece cooler, which is actually Hanks is a 78 and it really isn't that big on her HMMMM.
Guess I'll order the 72 and cross my fingers.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 8:44 am:
Do the Schneiders Blankets run true to size? If she is a 70ish would I order a 72" in a schneiders??
The sizing on the Defender is putting me off a bit, at least with the schneiders you guys have experience in the sizing. I really don't want to have to send one back.
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 9:57 am:
Diane,
The only thing that is affected by the size is how long it is and where it would end on her back.
Getting her a 72 would leave enough room to cover her back and some room for shrinkage if you had to wash it in a washing machine.
If the blanket is water proof the best way to wash is put it over a fence and hose it off.
Would Sam and Hank fit the size of this blanket, just in case?
Rachelle
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Member:
shirl
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 1:17 pm:
Diane,
In regards to Schneider's blanket size: Sedona measures 68, I bought the 68 and it fits perfectly. She has a Dura Nylon Ocala Legstrap Blanket, Page 28 in their Fall Catalogue. It's # 10493.
Shirl
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 2:23 pm:
Getting a too big blanket works if the blanket isn't fitted around the butt. If it has darts/seams so it is shaped to fit the butt, then it does't fit as good if it's too big and will tend to roll. I've not had the Schneider's shrink when I've washed them in warm (not hot) water. I don't put them in the dryer though. I've had some of the other blankets shrink quite a bit from just washing. Wish I could remember the brand name of one that was really bad. The flannel lined duck blankets shrink up pretty badly, as did another type that I bought locally. I've had good luck with the Rambos and Schneiders both as to not shrinking and holding up to normal wear and tear.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 3:02 pm:
I quit procrastinating and went with the schneiders brand. I ordered a 72" fitted Britton, this mare is SOOOOO spoiled! She's really been wanting some grass so I built them a pen off of their pasture so Princess could have some grass, she is VEERY happy at the moment!
Sam and Flash would take about the same size Hank is around a 76", he has never shown me to have problems in the winter, and he doesn't grow half the coat the two oldies do. He is kind of hot blooded tho, he sweats at the DrOp of a hat.
\My final choice, hope it arrives when hubby is at work!
https://www.sstack.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=7916&itemType=PRODU CT&iMainCat=91&iSubCat=549&iProductID=7916
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 3:30 pm:
I have this on one of our horses and really like it. I got the one that comes down a little further, but otherwise it's the same blanket.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 4:00 pm:
Thanks Sara good to know and thank you everyone for your help. I'm hoping it will just spend the winter in my "hidey hole" in the basement.
At least this winters prediction for our part of the world is milder and less snow than normal, I hope they are right...the last couple have been very trying! I am now prepared so I shouldn't need it right
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Member:
leslie1
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 - 7:07 pm:
nice blankey! and yeah! you prob wont need it...but its comforting to know you got one JIC.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 5:33 pm:
UPS guy got here just in time for me to grab the box and hide it! I haven't been able to try it on Flash yet Hubby got home 5 mins after the blanket arrived.
SOOO when you try these on are you suppose to put something else on them too? Will they pick up dirt easily? She is clean, but as every good horse should be, she is dusty underneath.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 5:59 pm:
WOW you guys were right about the schneiders blankets..how nice and soft for a turnout blanket!
The ones I remember at the boarding barn always looked stiff and uncomfortable.
Hubby left to drive around looking for deer, so I got it out and tried it on...GREAT fit and she seemed to like it well, I didn't get it perfectly fitted, just tried it on.
THANK YOU for all the help for this blanket ignorant horse owner!
Princess in her blanket(not fitted yet)
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 6:05 pm:
She looks quite cozy in it Diane. Of course what gal doesn't like a new outfit now and then =)
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 6:13 pm:
Good color for the princess as well!
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 7:18 pm:
Looks good! Sure wish you feed the old girl a little more; poor thing trying to chew on baling twine for a little nurishment!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Monday, Nov 30, 2009 - 8:47 pm:
Sara I didn't notice that! Actually I used a twine because I couldn't find a lead rope...it's just hanging on her halter making it look like she is eating it, as you can see lack of nourishment isn't one of her problems!
Those belly bands are nice too! I can tell I won't have to use leg straps. The next test is to see if the boys leave her alone in one. I LOVE how it doesn't make "swishing" noises when she moves in it, that used to drive me nuts with the training barn horses I might have to get them all one! Hubby would faint if he saw 3 pink blanketed horses walking around
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Member:
rtrotter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:05 am:
Diane,
She looks really good in her new blanket. A good choice.
You should use the leg straps, even though you think you might not need them, they prevent the blanket from shifting from side to side, but if your horse isn't used to them it may annoy her. I have had better luck with taking one leg strap and using it going from one side to the other under the tail.
Another thing, because the tail flap has a tendency to keep her tail from lifting, you may find that her back legs have a bit more manure on them.
She looks very cozy in her blanket.
Rachelle
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Member:
canter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:15 am:
So Diane, I'm wondering: you managed to stash the box from UPS without hubby noticing...but how on earth do you plan on hiding a pink covered horse????
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Member:
canter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:18 am:
Oh, forgot to add: if you take the leg strap from one side, go around the inside of the leg and clip it to the same side, then do the same with the other side, only catch the first sides strap as you go around from the inside, it helps to keep the straps from rubbing the inside of the horse's legs...Not sure I explained that well. Hopefully someone else knows what I mean and can explain it better.
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:31 am:
Diva mare has not had any problems when blanketed using Rachelle's method with using one leg strap from side to side under the tail. She doesn't really care for the leg straps but will tolerate it. Tail strap gets pooped on but oh well.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:35 am:
Having blanketed a thousand horses at the training barn I do know the many ways to use the leg straps. Really tho I don't think they will be needed with the belly band that keeps it VERY secure. I'm really glad I went with one!
I'm still plotting explaining the pink horse I'm really slipping in my plotting skills, if I had gotten the dark color he wouldn't have even noticed it on her (not kidding!) I couldn't resist that pretty burgundy color for her tho!
With any luck I won't even have to use it.
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 8:39 am:
Diane,
Looks very cootzy...no idea how to spell that?!
When hubby asks "when did you get that, or where did that come from?" I reply: "Oh I had it for awhile, just didn't use it." Not a lie, just leaving out some details...the less details (like price!)the less argument!
He's talking about another gun, which is worse than having horses, he only uses guns for hunting a couple of months out of the year! I guess guys need weapons (guns, powder gun, regular bow, cross bow)like we need horses, and horse "stuff."
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Member:
stek
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 10:39 am:
Diane I love brightly colored blankets, especially if you have horses turned out in hunting season. I also try to get a different color for each horse, makes them easy to identify. Right now we have red, purple, powder blue, royal blue and cranberry and two different colors of plaid. Talk about a horse of a different color!
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Member:
zarr
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 4:34 pm:
Diane, have been following this thread as I am very close to getting same blanket for one of mine.Perhaps you and Sara could become reps for the company with discount on all future blankets! The idea of no leg straps needed appeals as this horse can and does put her feet in strange places!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 4:49 pm:
Cindy I think you will love it, it really is an awesome blanket(so soft and quilty feeling). I was worried about Flash getting tangled in legstraps, one of the reasons I wanted a bellyband blanket. When I put it on her last night to try it on, all I did was fasten one bellystrap and velcro the front(didn't use the buckles or legstraps) That blanket was going nowhere even half a$$ed put on. The DrOp is very nice for the smaller breeds too as Sara mentioned. The measurements was true to size also, she measured a little over 70" and the 72" seems perfect.
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Member:
zarr
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 5:52 pm:
All sounds good Now how do I get this in around the retired husband ???
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:21 pm:
Cindy, keep your hand over the shipping label and remind him with a little smile that he shouldn't ask too many questions; Christmas is coming.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 7:37 pm:
Sit on the street corner waiting for UPS, then run it down to the basement (you do have a hidey hole right!) Then throw dirt on it and say you have had it for ages That's my working plan right now
Worked out hubby had to run to the vets right before ups came, he is on vacation and I was little worried it would come when he was here! If you know approximately when UPS shows up send him on an errand about then.
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Member:
zarr
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 8:25 pm:
Sara yes that does work
Diane my hidey hole is under the laundry how big is the box??
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 8:27 pm:
Oooooo Good Idea Sara! I've got to use that one. I've got some deliveries coming this week...
Or send retired husband on an extended errand while you wait for UPS--who had better be on time!! Which, I just read Diane's post, Errand was her idea too. Great minds think alike Diane.
When I still worked outside the home, I had deliveries sent there and they were hidden in trunk of car or tool box of my truck.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 8:49 pm:
That is one thing I miss about having a car, I hid everything in the trunk Now that I have a jeep that option is gone.
Cindy the box is pretty good sized, not real tall or wide, but pretty long! UPS was EARLIER than usual, they usually come here around 4...was 1:30 when they arrived. It has SS Tack all over the box, so hope your hand is big! The horse Gods were smiling on me, I had just happened to run home from work to grab a bite to eat and met hubby on the road going to vet...how perfect was that!
I hope no guys are reading this, I hate to give all our secrets away!
I wonder how many guns are hidden around here
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 11:06 pm:
Ladies, ladies, ladies...WE are such a devious bunch, aren't we?
But, it all evens out, caught my hubby telling different versions of a hunting camp tale.
Now, he's talking about building ANOTHER DEER BLIND, for next fall. I keep asking if he'll build a slow hay feeder, he says his hobby first. My arguments about saving on hay, being able to be gone without worrying about racing home to feed hay...not working.
So, ladies, any offers to build me one for a really outrageous price? I need some leverage here!
Speaking of guns, I should take a peak in the deer blind...
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Member:
mrose
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Posted on Tuesday, Dec 1, 2009 - 11:13 pm:
I don't hide anything. UPS comes much more frequently for husband than for me. He spends much time on line searching for strange old bicycle and motorcycle parts, which all come UPS in various size boxes. He dosn't even notice the horse stuff....just makes a kind of disapointed sound and says "oh, that one is for you."
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 7:06 am:
Angie my hubby and yours would love each other, they sound so much alike! Can I ship mine up there for hunting season? I just found out he is on vacation next week too. Glad the blanket fit so I don't have to send it back.
I think he just likes giving me a hard time about my horse stuff, I pay for it all myself from my check, so I don't know why he thinks it effects him, except a few less groceries. That isn't going to hurt him any!
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Member:
zarr
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 10:38 am:
I do have one up on mine. He races pigeons, as I've mentioned before, and there are always tempting race birds out there.He will announce Oh by the way have a pair of birds coming.. that means anything from 100 to 500 so I have wiggle room .Yes I used the car trunk for years the kids never caught on ...
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Member:
lilo
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 11:06 am:
Hi all,
Been lurking on this post for a while. Sometimes I think I need to have a blanket on hand for my mare (23 yrs old). However, this morning I went out to feed and the temperature was in the low teens. There she stood, out in the snow, with her fluffy coat as thick as a polar bear's. I guess she will be OK for a while. It might be nice to have one in case of illness .... I could not get away with one blanket for both horses - the gelding measures a 74", the mare 78".
I have to laugh at all the ideas about keeping horse purchases secret. Fortunately, I don't have to worry about that (as long as I am still working part-time, and keeping a close eye on the budget). I have more trouble convincing my husband to spend money on home improvements ....
You cannot hide those in the trunk of a car!
Lilo
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 3:22 pm:
Hi Lilo I think it is a matter of preference, my horses do fine in the winter without a blanket too. Right now they are out "grazing" (no snow yet!) and the wind is SOOO cold but they are oblivious to it other than running around like idiots
I wanted one for "emergencies" like a stretch of -60 below windchill days, which I'm hoping we won't see!
The old girl seems to be having a hard time adjusting when it stays that cold for days on end, a couple days of it she seems OK.
The blanket is for me I guess Just makes me feel better knowing I have one available now.
As far as your home improvements...where there's a will there's a way That stuff I can get away with because hubby wouldn't notice if I re-did the whole house(of course as long as I didn't move his guns!)
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 5:03 pm:
Hey Diane,
Ya, send your hubby up to hunt! How is he on home remodeling projects? Need the porch & siding finished, actually hoping we get winter, then mine will work in the barn...maybe on my slow feeders?! Not like the siding and porch are going to get done this year anyways. They can't hunt aaalll day, right?
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Member:
kpaint
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 5:34 pm:
Angie, mine hunted Sun 7 am to 6 pm...packed his lunch and everything.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 7:15 pm:
OH OH hubby must have spotted the box, he asked me tonight what came in that big box of horse stuff.
I couldn't think of anything, so told the truth! I said a blanket..."for what"....for Flash..."you are going to blanket a horse(and rolls eyes).
No I just got it in case I needed one for Flash..."so you got a blanket you aren't going to use"... I hope not...That one got him!!! He does love Flashes...not the 2 idiots as he calls them.
"How much was it".... HMMMM hesitation...$119.
No comment, so now I don't have to worry about hiding the pink horse!!!
Plus I blew out my good knee Monday so I think I am even getting a little pity! (not much tho)!
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Member:
vickiann
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Posted on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2009 - 8:10 pm:
Gorgeous blanket, Diane!
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Member:
lilo
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 3, 2009 - 12:33 pm:
Blew out your knee???? How in heck did you do that?
Lilo
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Member:
vickiann
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 3, 2009 - 5:07 pm:
Yikes! I didn't see that comment.
Hope your knee is doing better, Diane.
I've got lots of experience with blowing out the knees. Thankfully, have so far avoided surgery.
All best.
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Dec 4, 2009 - 6:56 am:
Don't know how I did it this time! Ripped my meniscus, not even close to what I did to my other knee, it is bearable anyway.
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Member:
ajudson1
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Posted on Friday, Dec 4, 2009 - 7:16 am:
Would it be too much to ask that you and your horses are sound and healthy at the same time, huh?
Did you play basketball by any chance in HS?
Hope you recover soon!
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Member:
scooter
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Posted on Friday, Dec 4, 2009 - 8:01 am:
Ah yes was quite the athlete in HS! Center of the BB team, track star....first girl to go to state( got my picture in the local paper and a parade when I got home LOL), pitted against the boys in track..the teachers even bet on the match up I won!
Is it coming back to haunt me 40 years later?
We have a windchill of -2 today and Flash looked oblivious to it
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