Island Life Magazine Ltd November/December 2005 | Page 29

Sponsored by Brickfields and Froghill -

EQUESTRIAN

I f yo u ’ re n o t s u r e , a s k
Rugs are not cheap, so you want to think
carefully before you spend your hard earned
cash. If you are not sure then Mandy Steen will
be more than happy to help you.
Call Mandy on 01983 840205.

Types of rug
TURNOUT RUG - Used for the winter
months, this can be a single waterproof
rug, or a Duo System, which is a 300gsm
under blanket and a 100gsm Outer Rug,
ideal for our changeable climate.
STABLE RUG - Used when the horse is
left in the stable during the day or
evening.
SWEAT RUG - Used for when the horse
returns from a hack out, keeps the horse
warm.

Taking care of your rug

that you either brush the mud off the
rug or hose the whole thing down. Most
rugs can be either hand washed, or put
on a delicate machine cycle (30C). Also
ensure that you use a really mild soap as
using a strong one can cause skin
irritation to the horse. Also some strong
detergents can remove the
waterproofing, which is the last thing
you want. Once washed, rinse
thoroughly in clean water and leave to
drip dry – never tumble dry. Ensure that
it’s stored in a dry, well-ventilated area
to prevent mould growth, and keep well
away from mice, as they love rugs and
chew them to make their nests.

quality. They all do the same job but if
you invest that bit more then you can be
sure of a rug that lasts longer. Rambo is
probably regarded as the top rug, with
prices ranging from £204 for a Duo
turnout rug, down to £54.95 for an
Amigo turnout rug. A less expensive
range is the Weatherbeeta. Both these
makes of rugs do the job well, although
the Rambo rugs, in our opinion, have the
edge.

Pricing
It’s important to take care of your rug to
make it last longer. Always make sure

Rugs will vary in price according to

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