Horse Show Tips

Make a list of everything you need to bring – grooming and tack – and check it off as you load the trailer.

Leave earlier than you think you need to. That way you will have time to spare if your horse decides to give you grief about getting in the trailer.

If you are traveling a long distance to the show, 4+ hours, stop and offer your horse water or a carrot. (Carrots have water in them and are good if your horse is refusing water on the trip). Do not let your horse out of the trailer, just open the feed door. If you let your horse out you may have a difficult time getting him back in.

Bring chairs and snacks. Although food and snacks are available at most shows, they may run out or you may be at the show much longer than you planned. (There are times it takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r getting through some of the events that may be before the event that you are in.

Keep baby wipes on hand to clean your horse’s nose, ears, around the eyes, and to wipe the dust off your horse’s hooves.

If your horse has white socks use baby powder to help whiten them if needed.

Accustom your horse to required class maneuvers – this means lots of PRACTICE! If this is your horse’s first show consider taking him to a similar event and ride him in the warm up arena prior to his show date. New locations, sights, and sounds often require time for adjustment.

If you haven’t shown before, or are showing in a new class, if possible attend as a spectator to see what is expected of you and your horse.

Don’t compare yourself to the competition; it takes you focus off your own performance.

Compete with yourself. Establish your own goals and strive for them. Remember, the judges’ approval of your performance is not the ultimate measurement of your success!