A new study has found that wearing more than one rug significantly decreases a horse’s stride length.
The preliminary study by BHSI Melissa Troup and colleagues from the McTimoney College of Chiropractic examined 12 riding school horses over 28 days.
The horses were split into two groups.
Group one wore a single 200g turnout rug for the duration of the study, while group two wore two 100g turnout rugs for the same period.
Initial stride measurements were taken at the start of the study when horses wore no rug and when wearing one and two rugs.
Measurements were then taken again on day 28 using digital video and Kinovea software.
In order to attain the measurements, a digital video camera recorded each of the 12 horses walking a straight 10m length line in an indoor school.
Five stride lengths for each limb were recorded for each horse.
Study findings
The research showed a significant reduction in stride length for the second group of horses, in contrast to group one’s stride length, which remained similar to the initial measurements.
“This is embryonic research into the effect that layering rugs can have on the horse’s stride length,” said Melissa.
“Inevitably, it has raised more questions and I hope this will motivate further studies in the future.”
A statement said that layering a horse’s rugs for warmth is common practice.
It stated that this research provides data for consideration among horse owners when making decisions about rugging.
“Understanding the biomechanical implications of rug use can help owners make more informed choices to support their horses’ comfort and wellbeing,” added Melissa.
Researchers also concluded that wearing rugs and the number of rugs worn has an effect on walk stride length, indicating a potential effect on horses’ musculoskeletal system.
View the study in full online (page 464 section 197)
Main image © Shutterstock
