Should You Rug Your Horse When Floating? 

Transporting horses is a common activity for many equestrians, whether you're heading to competitions, trail rides, veterinary appointments, or relocating. One question that frequently arises is whether horses should be rugged during transport. This seemingly simple question actually requires consideration of multiple factors including weather conditions, journey length, individual horse characteristics, and safety concerns.

Understanding Horse Comfort During Transport

Horses experience transport differently than humans. While we might be comfortable in a car, horses are standing in a moving vehicle, using their muscles constantly to balance and maintain position. This physical exertion generates body heat, even on short journeys. Additionally, most floats or trailers create a microclimate that differs from the outside environment.

When a float moves at highway speeds, air circulation creates a cooling effect similar to wind chill, potentially making the interior temperature feel several degrees colder than outside. Conversely, on hot days with limited ventilation, temperatures inside can rise significantly, creating heat stress risks.

When Rugging is Beneficial

Cold Weather Protection

Perhaps the most obvious reason to rug a horse during transport is protection from cold temperatures. During winter months or in cold climates, rugging helps your horse maintain body temperature, particularly when:

• Temperatures drop below 10°C 
• Rain or snow is present, making conditions damp
• You're traveling at highway speeds, which increases the wind chill factor inside the float
• Early morning or evening journeys when temperatures are lower

Clipped Horses

Horses that have been clipped for competition or management purposes lack their natural insulation. Without their full coat, these horses are particularly vulnerable to temperature fluctuations and benefit significantly from rugging during transport. A medium-weight stable rug is typically suitable for most clipped horses, though you may need to adjust based on how extensively they've been clipped and the prevailing weather conditions.

Long Distance Journeys

For longer journeys, temperature management becomes increasingly important. During extended transport:

• Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially if traveling through different regions or throughout the day
• Horses may sweat initially from loading stress, then cool down too quickly
• Physical fatigue can make horses more susceptible to temperature changes
• Providing a layer of protection helps maintain comfortable body temperature throughout the journey

Protection for Sensitive or Thin-Skinned Horses

Some horses, particularly Thoroughbreds and finer breeds, have thinner skin and less natural insulation. These horses often benefit from rugging even in moderate temperatures that might be comfortable for hardier breeds.

When to Avoid Rugging

Hot Weather Considerations

One of the most significant risks when rugging horses during transport is overheating. In temperatures above 18-20°C, rugs can prevent proper heat dissipation, potentially leading to:

• Excessive sweating
• Dehydration
• Heat stress or heat stroke in extreme cases
• Unnecessary discomfort

In hot weather, proper ventilation becomes more important than rugging. Ensure your float has adequate airflow and consider using lightweight fly sheets instead of traditional rugs if protection from insects is needed.

Short Journeys in Mild Weather

For brief trips in mild, dry conditions, many horses manage perfectly well without rugs. The natural stress response to loading and transport often raises a horse's temperature initially, making additional warmth unnecessary for journeys under 30 minutes in comfortable weather.

Heavily Coated Horses

Horses with thick winter coats have substantial natural insulation. Adding a rug could potentially cause overheating, even in relatively cool conditions. These horses may only need rugging in genuinely cold conditions or during extended highway travel.

The Number of Horses in the Float

The number of horses travelling in the float or truck can have an impact on whether or not a horse is rugged. If there is more than one horse in the float, then more body heat will be generated, warming the float. As such, horses may not need to be rugged when multiple horses are in the float, compared to when a horse is travelling solo. 

Safety Considerations for Transport Rugging

Rug Design and Fit

Not all rugs are suitable for transport. When selecting a rug for floating:

• Choose rugs designed specifically for travel or stable rugs without features that could catch on trailer fittings. For example it is best to avoid loose fitting hoods that can catch on hooks or tie up rails in the float
• Ensure perfect fit—rugs that are too loose can shift and slip; too tight can restrict movement and breathing
  
• Chest closures should be secure but quick-release in case of emergency

Monitoring During Transport

Whenever possible, monitor your horse during transport stops:

• Check for signs of sweating or overheating
• Adjust rugging if conditions change
• Ensure the rug hasn't shifted into an unsafe position

Best Rug Options for Transport

If you decide rugging is appropriate for your situation, these options typically work well for transport:

1. Lightweight stable rugs - Provide moderate warmth without restricting movement, such as the Zilco Defender Doona Rug
2. Cotton sheets - Offer minimal warmth but prevent drafts and can help keep the coat clean, such as the Zilco Flag Rug
3. Wool rugs - Natural material that helps regulate temperature and wicks moisture, such as the Zilco Stadium Wool Rug

Avoid waterproof turnout rugs in enclosed floats as these can prevent proper moisture evaporation and lead to overheating.

Creating a Rugging Protocol for Transport

Before deciding to rug your horse for their journey, it is best to take the following into consideration:

1. Temperature assessment: Check both current temperature and forecast for your journey
2. Journey duration: Longer journeys require more planning and potential rug changes
3. Individual horse needs: Consider coat thickness, breed sensitivity, and your horse's known preferences
4. Float type: Enclosed floats vs. open stock trailers create different microclimates
5. Journey timing: Early morning departures might start cold but warm up considerably

Practical Tips for Transport Rugging

• Pack multiple rug options for longer journeys where conditions might change
• For multi-day trips, bring rugs that can be used both during transport and overnight stabling
  
• Ensure your horse is thoroughly dry before rugging for transport, especially after bathing or if they've been sweating
• Clean and inspect transport rugs regularly for damage that could create hazards

Conclusion

The decision to rug your horse during float transport shouldn't be based on habit or convenience, but rather on a thoughtful assessment of the specific circumstances of each journey. By considering your horse's individual needs, the weather conditions, journey length, and appropriate rug selection, you can ensure your horse travels in comfort and arrives at their destination in optimal condition.

Remember that each horse is an individual—what works for one may not be appropriate for another. Observe your horse's response to different rugging approaches during transport and refine your strategy based on their comfort signals. With experience, you'll develop an intuitive sense of when rugging benefits your particular horse's transport experience.

At Oakford Stockfeeds, we stock a large range of the Zilco Rug Collection. To browse our stock, simply visit us in-store or online.