A survey led by Emma Best, a final-year equine bio-veterinary science student, investigated the complex factors influencing how UK horse owners decide when and how to rug their horses. The study, which gathered responses from over 1,000 owners, found that decisions are shaped not only by weather conditions but also by individual horse characteristics, owner perceptions, and empathy. Notably, owners who felt colder themselves in extreme weather were more likely to choose heavier rugs, highlighting a strong human-animal bond that may sometimes lead to over-rugging and associated health risks like obesity.

The research also revealed that rugging practices are typically tailored to individual horses rather than following uniform guidelines, with breed-based assumptions playing a role in milder conditions but diminishing as weather severity increases. Emma aims to develop an app to provide evidence-based guidance, helping owners make more informed, welfare-focused rugging decisions. The study underscores the need for clearer, accessible tools to support consistent and effective horse care across the equine industry.