Spring is here and for many horse owners, that means a return to the show ring. Is your horse ready? Below are some tips to make sure your equine partner is show ring ready in no time!
Fitness
Did your horse get the winter off? If he spent more time in a stall than moving around, he might be a little out of shape. Spring is a great time to start a fitness schedule leading up to your first show.
Teeth
If you haven’t checked your horses teeth in a year or more, this would be a great time to call the vet out. If your horse is unable to chew properly, he might have a difficult time maintaining his weight. In addition, teeth problems can lead to performance issues in horses.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations and coggins are required for any horses that are or will be traveling this year. Make sure if you are traveling, your horse has the necessary shots, tests and certificates to enter the show grounds. Check with your vet on which vaccinations are required. If your horse needs any other annual or bi-annual shots, this is the time to get them take care of.
Traveling
Unless the shows, clinics or trail rides are walking distance form your house, chances are you will need to haul your horse. If you trailer has been sitting all winter, there are a few safety checks to consider.
- Tires – Air up all the tires, check for wear and rot. Also check all lug nuts on wheels.
- Floor – Make sure the floor is still sound with no weak spots.
- Hitch – Check for cracks and signs of wear.
- Wires – Hitch up and make sure all lights are working.
- Doors – Make sure everything closes and latches properly.
If you haven’t loaded your horse in a while, it might also be a good time to practice loading. Better to work the kinks out now instead of the morning of the show.
Clipping
After a long cold winter, your horse may look more mammoth that equine right now. Body clipping wont only make grooming easier, it will help your sweaty horse cool off faster after working. If your horse needs a clip, make sure you have body clippers with sharp blades. Nothing is more frustrating than getting halfway finished and needing to stop to buy more blades!
Joint Support
Any performance horse will sustain wear and tear on their joints and connective tissue. Naturally, all of us at Precision recommend Precision Joint Solution. Not only has precision helped the older stiffer horses regain some of their competitive edge. Precision is also helping the younger horses recover quicker from their work. If your horse is in heavy work, joint support now can help your horse last even longer in the show pen.