Did the gift-giving season land you a new western saddle? Or perhaps you purchased one at your local tack shop’s end-of-the-year sale. Regardless of how it was received, if you’ve recently come to own a new western saddle, you...
One of the most important things you can do for your horse is to make sure his tack fits properly. Poor fitting tack is comparable to you wearing poorly fitted shoes: too tight and you’ve got squished toes and...
Polo wraps are a popular product used for protection and light support on your horse's lower legs during exercise. Here's how to apply them correctly.Make sure your horse is standing square before you begin, then start the polo wrap...
Have you been caught riding in the rain? Before you panic, there are ways to save your leather bridle and saddle even if they’re dotted with rain drops or soaked from a downpour.First, take a soft, dry cloth...
If riding in wet or muddy conditions, deep sand, foxtails or burrs, Michigan State University’s Department of Animal Science recommends leaving your horse’s boots behind. Debris-filled boots can rub and scrape, leaving your horse’s legs vulnerable to bacterial and...
Winter blankets harbor bacteria and fungi that can lead to skin irritation. Keep winter blankets dry, and clean them regularly. On sunny days, remove blankets, turn them inside out, remove loose hair and dirt with a stiff brush and...
Fly masks offer protection from annoying insects, so horses across the country are outfitted in them during summer’s winged onslaught. But fly masks can sometimes harm your horse if basic application guidelines aren’t followed.We asked equine veterinarian Jim Brendemuehl...
If your horse has managed to rip, tear, shred or otherwise mangle his blanket in the midst of a cold snap, here are some things you can do to hold it together until you make it to the tack...
Of course you should always ride your horse in the bit that lets him perform at his best. And you must be in control of your horse for that to happen. But while pelhams are common in equitation and...
There isn't a more disconcerting feeling than realizing that your reins have become disengaged from your western bit because the Chicago screws have come undone. Even if you thought you'd twisted them into infinity, the things can slowly untwist....
