Turn out rugs in stables

[forestertwo]

Why shouldn't you use a turnout rug overnight in a stable? Thanks.

[Lollyhoney]

I'm sure you could if you wanted too. I like to change mine so as my turnout rug can have a good airing and dry out if necessary!

[Clanad]

The usual turnout rug is heavier and breathes less than a stable blanket and therefore may well cause the animal to sweat if left on during the night in a stable. Especially true if the stable is not well ventilated. Additionally, turnout rugs tend to be heavier than stable blankets and can cause shoulder rub if used exclusively. As Lollyhoney says, the rug will accumulate the sweat and require more frequent cleaning, which is difficult. We've taken ours to a self-service laundry that have a couple of larger, commercial machines and they don't mind our use of these for this purpose.
Some horsemen maintain that frequent or exclusive use of rugs and blankets shortens the hair or hinders the onset of the winter coat. I don't think this is true, but I have seen, in such cases, fewer of the long "guard hairs" that accompany most winter coats.
Here in the western U.S. the night time temperatures can vary from the daytime temps by as much as 50 degrees F. More so, if the Chinooks are blowing...

Best of luck!

[b13thy]

would you like to wear your outside coat in bed? Get a nice snuggly stable blanket and your horse will be nice and warm

[lankeela]

Nice cosy quilty pyjamas are much lighter and more comfortable than a windproof, waterproof outdoor rug.

Also much easier to clean if the horse lies down where he has peed and pooed on his bed.