The horse blanket has been around for many years. As
long as cowboys and Indians have existed, so has the use of the horse
blanket. A welcome addition to any true-blue western cowboy's stock of
horse paraphernalia, the horse blanket can be useful and pleasing to the
eye as well.
Most story books about horses and cowboys or Indians will include a
reference to or a picture of a horse blanket. It is also a work of art
for collectors and to western museums.
Where to buy a horse blanket is not a problem as there are so many
outlets available both online and in the 'real' world, so to speak. A
selection could be as close as your local feed store. Many magazines
that advertise western or Indian related items will carry horse
blankets. Some of the bigger, well-known flea markets also are sure to
have someone dealing in horse blankets. Some of the companies that sell
western items and equipment are American Saddlery, Cottage Craft,
Classic Equine, Horsewear, and Cowboy Brand.
A horse blanket was used in the Wild West days of gun fighting, in
theaters with plays about western days, in farms and ranches around the
globe. Soldiers who fought wars on horseback used the horse blanket.
There are rodeos across the United States, and you won't see a rodeo
without seeing a horse blanket. It is well-known to people who don't
even ride horses. You can find them sold at travel stops and tourist
stores, although some may only be decorative and less functional to the
real cowboy or cowgirl. A restaurant that advertises steak as one of its
main attractions might have a statue on display with a horse and its
trusty blanket.
The fibers in a good horse blanket will wick away the sweat from the
horse's back. Cooler blankets help keep the horse comfortable while they
wait in the heat of the sun or in a hot building, such as an auction
building or a barn with poor airflow. The horse blanket is easy to care
for and only looks better as it ages, although excessive wear will merit
replacement for your horse's benefit. A torn or holey blanket is sure to
have less ability to do what it is meant to do.
The horse blanket is a staple for the hard-core cowboy or frequent
rider. It is a help to ranch hands when they have to stay out in the
weather during round-ups of livestock. Even if the horse doesn't need
the blanket, the rider might. It makes a nice pallet to shield the rider
from the ground should they spend a night by the campfire! It's certain
to pad the head better than a rock should a nap be necessary during work
breaks. It may even be used as a changing curtain should a lady rider or
work hand be mixed among the men folk! (No peaking, fellows!) You could
place it under your basket and dinnerware to protect your picnic from
the insects crawling around by spreading it over the ground or a nearby
rock while you eat.
