Winter blanketing practices: An online survey of North American horse owners.

The research study explores the prevalence, reasoning, and management decision-making related to using blankets for horses during the winter in North America. An online survey found that a majority of horse owners in the region blanket their horses during winter, primarily to protect them from precipitation.

Research Method and Sample Population

• The researchers developed a 33-question online survey which was distributed between December 1, 2020, and January 5, 2021.
• The survey was publicized through social media and e-newsletters to target a broad audience.
• 1,450 horse owners from North America completed the survey.
• Although most respondents were from the United States Midwest region (68%), a Chi-squared analysis found that geographical region did not influence the frequency of blanket usage.

Horse Management Practices

• When respondents were asked about their primary engagement with horses, recreational riding emerged as the most common activity (40%).
• Overall, 54% of the participants (790) reported that they blanket most of their horses during winter.
• The major reason for blanketing horses was to shield them from precipitation (78% of responses).

Reasons for Not Blanketing Horses

• On the other hand, 660 participants did not blanket most of their horses during winter.
• The primary reason given for not blanketing horses was that they had access to a shelter (50% of responses).

Implication of the Study

• The study provides valuable insight into the blanketing and winter management practices of horse caretakers in North America.
• The findings will guide future research in this field and shape education efforts on winter horse management practices.