Hi

I hope you are well.  I wanted to share a new research development that may be of interest to your readers. A preliminary study presented at the 2025 British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) Conference suggests that layering turnout rugs could have an impact on stride length in horses.

The research, led by McTimoney Animal Chiropractor, Melissa Troup, with the McTimoney College of Chiropractic, highlights the need to consider not just individual rugs but the combined effects of multiple layers—particularly relevant for owners and professionals managing horse comfort and performance.

You’ll find the full press release attached for more detail. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’d like to speak with the researchers or require high-res images or further information.

Best regards,
Rachael

NEWS RELEASE

17 June 2025 - For immediate release

New Study Suggests Layering Rugs May Impact Horse Stride Length

Groundbreaking new research presented at the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) 2025 Conference has highlighted the potential effects of rug layering on horses' stride length—raising important questions about the possibility of its impact on musculoskeletal health and performance.

The preliminary study, titled "A Preliminary Study Investigating the Effect of Rug-Wearing on Measured Stride Length in Horses," was conducted by McTimoney Animal Chiropractor and BHSI, Melissa Troup, alongside colleagues from the McTimoney College of Chiropractic.

The study examined 12 riding school horses to assess how wearing no rug, one rug, or two rugs affected stride length, and the effect of rug layering over a 28-day period. Horses were split into two groups:

• Group 1wore one 200g turnout rug for 28 days.
• Group 2wore two 100g turnout rugs, layered, for 28 days.

Stride measurements were taken at Day 0 when horses wore no rug, one rug and two rugs, and again at Day 28, using digital video and Kinovea software. The results showed that stride length significantly decreased as the number of rugs increased

After a 28 day period, there was a significant reduction in stride length for Group 2 horses; in contrast to Group 1's stride length, which remained similar to day 0 measurements.

"This is embryonic research into the effect that layering rugs can have on the horse's stride length," said Troup. "Inevitably, it has raised more questions, and I hope this will motivate further studies in the future." 

Layering rugs for warmth is common practice, and this research provides data for consideration among horse owners when making rugging decisions.

Troup adds: "Understanding the biomechanical implications of rug use can help owners make more informed choices to support their horses' comfort and wellbeing."

Follow this link to read the full proceedings from the BSAS: 
BSAS Proceedings (this research is number 197 on Page 464)

ENDS

For media enquiries, contact:  

Rachael Holdsworth, rachael@holdsworthpr.co.uk, 07850 017587.

Images:  Horse in Turnout Rug - credit Holdsworth PR, Melissa Troup at the British Society of Animal Science 2025 Conference.
 

Links:

BSAS Proceedings (this research is number 197 on Page 464)

Melissa Troup Equestrian website, research page

Facebook: Melissa Troup Equestrian 

Editor's Notes:

What is McTimoney?

The McTimoney treatment is an effective and gentle form of chiropractic that uses quick and light adjustments on specific vertebrae or skeletal structures. It is a holistic approach that treats the body as a whole to realign and balance the musculoskeletal system without significant force. It has a particular focus on the spine and pelvis and looks at the cause and not just the symptoms of dysfunction. This helps to restore and maintain health, movement, soundness, and performance. It is a non-invasive, gentle physical therapy, and treatment is readily accepted by most animals.

The McTimoney Animal Association (MAA) is an independent regulatory body. All members hold a PGDip or MSc in Animal Manipulation from the McTimoney College of Chiropractic, abide by a code of ethics, and are fully insured to treat animals. For more information on the McTimoney Animal Association, or to find a practitioner near you, go to www.mctimoneyanimal.co.uk