How to Prepare Yourself for a Horse Show

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Make a list of all things that are needed to be done and that you need to take to the show.

   Do this a week or so prior to your horse show, no later than 5 days beforehand.
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   Step 2: Make sure that everything you need is placed on the list.

   This might also include extra halters, show clothes and food. , This very detailed list will assist you in making your own personalized list. , Horses can sense your attitude, so keep confident! , Get bags to carry all of your show clothes in and to keep them clean and wrinkle-free.
   
   You spent a lot of money on those clothes, so take good care of them. ,, Check off what is packed in the car.
   
   Always have extra water for yourself and healthy foods so that you have energy throughout the day(s). , Wash saddle pads, iron and wash clothes, and everything else. ,, If you use the same saddle you work in to show, be sure you clean it good before your classes. ,,, They will not allow you to screw or nail anything into/onto their stalls so make sure the hangers are portable (wire, bailing tyne, etc.). , This could be a toolbox, tackle box, or some other sort of box.
   
   It is intended to help you carry around your brushes and to stay organized. , They are easy to lose and you should always carry one in your pocket. , This will help you stay organized and makes it much easier to carry around the items.
   
   Have two different colored sponges so you won't get them mixed up.
   
   One should be to wipe your horse's face and the other one should be to wipe your horse's behind. , Always take all cleaning items with you, to fix last minute mishaps and messes. , Or, put a light sheet/fly sheet over him, if he is not able to be kept inside. ,,,,, This is important, in case they hit their feet on each other, and for safety precautions. , Give yourself adequate time for sign in. , The horse is the number one priority.
   
   Have the stall ready if one is available, or if you have a place it is set up with hay and water. , Give your horse some time to digest. ,,, Just stay relaxed.
   
   Travel away inevitably brings up new situations and challenges; just be ready to deal with them. , Be confident and stay happy.
   
   Smile and think positive.
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   Step 3: Review the list under "Things You'll Need".

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   Step 4: Remain calm or you will make your horse nervous.

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   Step 5: Keep your show clothes clean.

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   Step 6: Carry your makeup and hair stuff in garment bags.

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   Step 7: The day before the show

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   Step 8: have everything packed in the car.

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   Step 9: Clean all things properly with the correct cleaner so that nothing gets ruined.

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    Step 10: Have a clean neat place to put it all

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    Step 11: like in your tack box (if big enough)

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    Step 12: or in your spare room in the house.

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    Step 13: Bring your work saddle and your show saddle.

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    Step 14: Get an under pad for showing to prevent your saddle blankets from slipping off or getting all wrinkly.

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    Step 15: Bring an extra halter and lead rope just in case you lose your halter or it breaks.

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    Step 16: Make sure that you bring bucket hangers because a lot of the show stalls are portable and will not have bucket hangers.

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    Step 17: Get some sort of a grooming box.

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    Step 18: Have more than one hoof pick.

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    Step 19: Put all of the bathing items in some sort of bucket or a bag.

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    Step 20: Try to keep your horse as clean as possible.

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    Step 21: Have your horse clean a day before the show and put him in a place where he won't be able to get dirty again.

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    Step 22: Make sure the mane bands match your horse's mane color.

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    Step 23: Do not put show shine in the saddle area of your horse or you will lose your saddle during the show.

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    Step 24: Bring plenty of fly spray.

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    Step 25: The day of the show

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    Step 26: make sure that your horse has hay and water if it is a hot morning or a long ride.

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    Step 27: Make sure your horse has the proper protective gear on when trailering.

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    Step 28: Always leave early in case there is an accident

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    Step 29: traffic

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    Step 30: When at the show

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    Step 31: make sure you have help.

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    Step 32: Feed your horse at least 1 1/2 - 2 hours before a show starts.

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    Step 33: Before classes

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    Step 34: start clean up your horse and yourself.

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    Step 35: Don't be late to any of your classes.

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    Step 36: Don't panic when something goes wrong.

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    Step 37: When ready

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    Step 38: go into the arena.

Detailed Guide

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