These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Horses Home

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

Blanketing and Wrapping Horses for Transport

Last Updated: September 22, 2009

View as web page


Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky

The need for a blanket will depend on the weather conditions, type of trailer, and ventilation available. In a well-ventilated trailer on a warm day, you won't need to blanket your horse. In some cases, having a heavy blanket on the horse in a poorly ventilated trailer can cause horses to sweat and become overheated, even in cold weather. In general, don't over-blanket, and keep the air moving inside the trailer so your horse can have a comfortable ride.

It is also customary to wrap a horse's legs when trailering. Leg wraps that extend from the knee or hock to the coronary band can help protect your horse during a trailering trip. However, be sure you know how to properly apply leg wraps. They can cause injury and permanent damage when not applied properly.

Also make sure your horse has had time to get used to its legs being wrapped before being hauled in the trailer. Many times, horses will kick and stomp when first wearing leg wraps.

loading in trailer



Browse related Articles by tag: horses, horse management, horse transportation


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.