As some of you may already know, I like to obsess.
My current obsession is rugs. Today we swapped all the Shetland ponies’ (Vitamin, Fivla and Tiddles) rugs for dry rugs and I thought to myself that if I hadn’t got Floss with me, it would’ve been very hard work. The ponies’ rugs were wet through and I don’t like that. So much for waterproof.
Meanwhile all the Icelandics were totally dry underneath their rugs. They are wearing very expensive Rambo high neck 0g turnout rugs.
My back is not getting better. In fact, I can now add brachyalgia (arm “sciatica”) to my list. I need my life to be easier. I can’t keep nipping out to change rugs because the old horses/ponies and Tiddles are soaked through. I need to know that the rugs they have on are keeping them 100% dry so they can keep warm and I won’t worry.
I told this to Tiddles and he agreed.
Tiddles is good with rugs. He does his very best and I honestly think it is the way forward for him in winter – he has equine metabolic syndrome. Think Type II diabetes.
(and there’s nothing wrong with Newt, though he would love a “dressing gown”)
Pretty please (sorry, no my little fat boy).
Tiddles’ rug is not ideal – I like high necks too. Tiddles gets wet shoulders.
A high neck allows for freedom and just that extra bit of protection. I am not a fan of full necks.
So I costed the rugs I want to buy for Fivla, Vitamin and Tiddles and it came to over £1,000 (two rugs each – 0g and 100g high neck Rambo).
And the thing is, and I know this sounds awful but realistic, but what if Fivla and Vitamin don’t make it to winter – they are very, very ancient……. and every day is extra.
Feeling a little sick and wondering what to do, I went into my shed and made another sheep.
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Get it! Why does life have to be so complicated?
The rain sheets for my herd were soaking through so I bought a can of “Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield, Water Repellent Spray for Outdoor Summer and Spring Gear and Patio Furniture, Fabric Spray for Protection Against the Rainy Spring Weather, 13 oz” and treated each rain sheet. It worked and the coats (except for one that needs another application) are keeping the herd dry. It was about $13 for one can and it treated three rain sheets with some extra still in the can. Try treating their rugs with this product (or one similar) and see if it helps. : )
I understand where you’re at. I have two old mares and a very old dog. I don’t by feed or supplements in excess for any of them because – what if? I really hate thinking like that but it is the reality.
If you go for ones with a very small amount of fill (50g if you can find it, but after a bit of use 100g flattens) they are a LOT drier. I know your littles don’t really need the insulation but it doesn’t make that much difference to the warmth but stay really dry…. Maybe a cheaper option?
Can’t help with the neck thing, other than agree!
I HATE the combos, so mine have ones with removable necks so I can only put them on when its actually going to rain. Mine are stabled at night in the winter, so I take the necks off every night. Saves the mane falling out too (they are 17hh+ WB so I don’t know if this is possible at the Tiddles end of the size chart).
I honestly don’t think I am buying anymore rugs ever. The last lot have made me financially insolvent