Some may argue that horses do not really need horse blankets, because of their natural ability to survive in the cold climate.
However, there are some factors that these critics have either not considered or have chosen to ignore.
Privately owned horses most definitely do need blankets to rely on for warmth, especially when being confined to a small area.
The main argument against the horse blanket is that it is unnatural for the horse to wear.
But truth be told, it is also unnatural for horses to be confined to a barn, or even a ranch.
When in the wild, horses can rely on the natural features of the land such as trees, bushes and large rocks as wind barriers and insulators.
When in captivity, this is no longer possible, and horse owners often compensate by providing their horses with horse blankets to keep them warm.
This is essential during the winter, at night or when the horse has been moved to a colder climate than it is accustomed to.
A good horse blanket is more like a coat than just a blanket.
It allows the wearer a free range of movement.
Blankets also serve to protect from other elements.
They can be waterproof yet breathable, to protect from the rain while not allowing the animal to get too warm during the day conditions.
They can also come in what is also referred to as a fly sheet, which protects against biting and disease-carrying flies but is lightweight and breezy so that the animal does not overheat.
As long as the owner is responsible, and only uses horse blankets during appropriate times of the day and year, the horse should be safe.