Spring is Here!
Posted by John Brand on
Spring is officially here. The wildflowers are in bloom and the grasses are a beautiful green. The horses started blowing their coats and the weather has been absolutely perfect for riding. Before you spend your days in the saddle, take the time to go over your tack and your trailer so you know you’re prepared for riding season.
First, let’s discuss tack. Pull everything out, take things apart and go over it. It’s helpful to take pictures of your gear fully assembled before disassembling. Check the tightness of any Chicago screws. Make sure all leather is cleaned and oiled. Is your hardware free of rust or oxidization? Go over all stitching. Is anything brittle or fraying? A tack failure can be catastrophic, so I personally find a peace of mind by going over everything with a critical eye. Wash your girths, leg wraps, saddle pads, and even your grooming kit. It’s a great time to launder and repair winter blankets and properly store them until winter.
Your rig is also extremely important. Its a good idea to have your trailer taken in for a safety inspection, but there are things you can check on your own. Lift the stalls mats and check the floorboards for any weakened or rotting wood. The west coast has gotten its fair share of rain this year, so there’s a high probability for mildew in your tack room and even on your tack. Make sure stall dividers securely latch, as do all doors. If you have a first aid kit in your trailer, take it our and check your supplies as well as expiration dates.
There are countless other ways to prepare for spring and summer riding, which can feel quite overwhelming. However, if you prioritize tasks that effect your safety and the safety of your horse, such as the ones listed above, then you will have a much more successful and enjoyable riding season. If you happen to discover you need to replace a piece of tack, please feel free to contact us, as we would love to assist you.