I know it is hard to think about show season with the freezing temperatures and snow but here are some tips to get you organized so that you’ll be ready when the show season starts.
Register with your local or provincial equestrian associations as soon as you can. You will be sure to have all your paperwork in hand when it comes time to register for the shows. You may also be eligible for discounts on showing fees or have the opportunity to participate in clinics and workshops at a discounted rate.
Update your horse’s health record. Make sure your horse has all the necessary vaccinations. The University of Guelph Equine Research Centre has a great facts sheet on immunization guidelines and you can even create a customized vaccination planner for your horse!
Schedule a Coggins test with your veterinarian a few weeks before the first horse show so that you will have the results before you register for the show. Make sure the results of the Coggins test remain valid until after your last horse show of the season.
Set up a training schedule with your coach to help you achieve your goals for show season. If you don’t have a full-time coach, consider hiring a coach for a few sessions to help you build a training regime for you and your horse. You will be more likely to succeed when you’ve got an expert to consult with.
Decide how many shows you will be attending based on your training schedule and your budget. Mark those dates on your calendar now to avoid conflicts with other events that may be happening over the summer season. Remember to mark the registration deadlines for those shows on your calendar too!
Does your horse look like he should be in a ’80’s heavy metal band? Start getting his mane in shape for braiding. Pull the mane a little bit every time you groom your horse. You won’t be going crazy pulling the week before the show and your horse’s neck won’t be sore. Keep your fingers in shape and do a few braids every week too.
Check your horse show supplies. Make sure your shipping bandages are clean and in good condition. Budget for any new equipment you’re likely to need and make a list. Keep your eye open at the tack shops for sales and watch the classifieds for any good used equipment.
If you have to hire a horse shipping company or borrow a horse trailer to take you to the shows, start calling around now to negotiate prices. If you’ve got your own trailer, make an appointment with the mechanic to have a full inspection before you start the show season.
If you’ve got more show season tips please share them!
