Horse Products

Basic essential tack for beginner horse owners includes:

• Saddle: Properly fitted English or Western
  saddle appropriate for your riding discipline
• Saddle pad: Quality pad to protect horse’s
  back and absorb sweat
• Bridle: Correctly sized bridle with bit
  appropriate for your horse’s training level
• Girth or cinch: Properly sized and in good
  condition
• Helmet: ASTM/SEI certified riding helmet for
  safety
• Lead rope & halter: For handling and tying
  your horse safely

Always consult with an experienced equestrian or trainer for
proper fitting and selection.

Hoof care frequency depends on several factors:

• Barefoot horses: Typically need trimming
  every 6-8 weeks
• Shod horses: Usually require resetting or new
  shoes every 4-6 weeks
• Seasonal considerations: Hooves may grow
  faster in spring/summer
• Individual variation: Some horses need more
  frequent care than others
• Workload: Performance horses may need more
  frequent attention
• Regular checks: Inspect hooves daily for
  stones, cracks, or abnormalities

Always work with a qualified farrier who can recommend a
schedule based on your horse’s specific needs.

Beneficial supplements depend on the horse’s individual needs:

• Joint supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin,
  MSM for arthritis or high-performance horses
• Hoof supplements: Biotin, methionine, zinc
  for hoof quality
• Digestive supplements: Probiotics, prebiotics
  for gut health
• Electrolytes: For horses in heavy work or hot
  climates
• Calming supplements: Magnesium, thiamine,
  tryptophan for nervous horses
• Vitamin/mineral balancers: To complement
  forage-based diets

Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any
supplements.

Choosing the right saddle involves several important
considerations:

• Professional fitting: Always have a qualified
  saddle fitter assess your horse
• Tree width: Must match your horse’s back
  shape and width
• Discipline: Choose English, Western, or
  specialty saddles based on your riding style
• Rider fit: Seat size should accommodate the
  rider comfortably
• Material quality: Leather quality, stitching,
  and tree integrity
• Regular reassessment: Horses change shape, so
  fittings should be checked regularly

A poorly fitting saddle can cause behavioral issues, soreness,
and long-term damage to your horse.

A comprehensive equine first aid kit should include:

• Wound care: Sterile gauze, vet wrap,
  antiseptic solution, wound ointment
• Bandaging supplies: Cotton wool, stable
  bandages, adhesive tape
• Tools: Scissors, tweezers, thermometer,
  stethoscope
• Medications: Banamine (with vet
  prescription), electrolytes, wound powder
• Emergency info: Veterinarian contact numbers,
  horse’s medical records
• Specialty items: Hoof pick with knife, twitch
  (if trained to use), flashlight

Keep one kit in the barn and a smaller version in your trailer
for travel emergencies.

Proper feed storage is crucial for maintaining nutritional value
and preventing issues:

• Hay storage: Keep off ground on pallets,
  protect from moisture, ensure ventilation
• Grain storage: Use airtight containers in
  cool, dry areas away from rodents
• Supplement storage: Keep in original
  containers with lids tightly closed
• Rotation: Use oldest feed first (first in,
  first out system)
• Pest control: Regular cleaning, sealed
  containers, proper waste disposal
• Safety: Store in well-organized area away
  from heat sources and chemicals

Moldy or spoiled feed can cause serious health issues including
colic and respiratory problems.