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How to Wrap A Horse's Legs

Why Wrap?

Wrapping a horse's legs in polos can serve many purposes. For horses that are stalled, it can help alleviate symptoms of stocking up; but they can also be used to help prevent against minor knocks and bumps, add a little extra support during a workout, and be used as a more breathable alternative to shipping boots.

How-to:

Caution: Improperly applied wraps can prove hazardous to your horse by restricting blood supply, resulting in pressure sores, or by unwrapping during a ride. It is advisable to seek professional assistance the first few times you begin.

1. Ensure the horse's legs are clean and thoroughly brushed to avoid irritation once the polos are wrapped. If the flies are bad, it may be a good idea to spray the legs with a fly spray and let dry beforehand.

2. Start under the horse's knees. Put the end of the wrap in the middle of the leg below the knee cap, and hold in place with your hand.

3. You may begin to wrap the leg. Wrap counter-clockwise on left legs, clockwise on right.

4. Each motion, pull as your are coming along the front. Do NOT pull from behind the leg, which can damage the sensitive tendons. You should overlap the polo bandages from 1/3 of the way to 1/2 with each rotation.

5. Ensure pressure is taut. Not too tight that it will restrict blood flow and damage the leg, not too loose that is will unwind easily.

6. Wrap just under the ankles before heading back up the leg with the same, even pressure.

7. Secure the wrap with the velcro tabs towards the top.

8. Check for fit. A finger or two should fit be able to be squeeze under the bandage. Do not hesitate to redo your wrapping job if you are second-guessing the fit.

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