Instructions
Adjust the blanket's chest straps. Ideally, the buckles should be fastened in the vicinity of the center adjustment. If this is not possible, it is fine as long as the chest is covered and the neck opening sits forward of the horse's withers and shoulders. Where your horse wears the chest straps likely will change throughout the year as its coat thickens and weight changes.
Adjust the rear belly surcingle next. This strap comes off the far side of the blanket near the horse's stifle and fastens to the front buckle behind the horse's nearside elbow. It should reach the buckle without causing much, if any, pull on the blanket. If it pulls, lengthen the strap. If there is more than a hand's width between the strap and your horse's belly when it is fastened, take up the slack.
Adjust the front belly surcingle. This strap comes off the far side of the blanket behind the elbow and crosses the rear belly surcingle before reaching the nearside buckle at the horse's stifle. It should be adjusted using the same standard as the rear belly surcingle.
Adjust the leg straps by taking the first one around the the horse's leg and clipping it to the same- side D-ring. Take the second through the first and fasten to its same-side D-ring. Slide your hand between each strap and the inside of the horse's leg, and look for a minimum space of a hand's width. More space is fine, as long as the straps are pulling slightly on one another to keep them from sagging too close to the horse's hocks.
How to Adjust the Straps on My Horse's Blanket
Blanketing your horse in cold weather is a necessary task in harsher climates. Blankets can be beneficial but also can cause problems if not adjusted correctly, leaving it so your horse would be better off warming himself. A blanket with straps not properly adjusted can slip, slide, rub or entangle your horse. Taking care that all straps are adjusted properly each time you put the blanket on is essential to your horse's health and happiness.