The end of dark mornings and nights, muddy fields and clipping every 6 weeks is in sight. It's that close you can almost smell the evening hacks out with friends after work, beach rides, sun tan lotion for pink noses and the 4am starts for the competition season.
Spring is here!
...and so, I thought I'd give you ten top tips for ensuring you and your horse have a fun spring and summer!
1) De-hair - Get rid of that dull winter fluff by spending some extra time grooming your horse. I've heard great things about the FURminator® for removing those pesky winter coats but have never used it. Let me know if you have!
2) Get fit - We're all guilty of it; but if you've spent a little too many hours on the couch this winter then get back out there and get fit! Join a running or swimming club, or even your local riding club and get back into the swing of things!
If you're looking for something new to do - take a look at the Shotgun & Chelsea Bun Club!
3) Go makeover mad - Give your horse a makeover. Clip his bridle path, fetlocks, muzzle and anything else that's a bit fuzzy or overgrown from the winter months!
4) Head to the New Forest - Nothing can compare to long evening walks, surrounded by horses and the countryside. The New Forest has plenty of pet-friendly hotels so why not book yourself a weekend break with your pooch?
5) Have a tack room tidy out - Do those well-worn winter rugs need throwing away or reproofing? Is there any old tack hiding out in your tack room that you haven't used in a while? You never know, in sorting through your stuff you might just find things you don't need anymore that you can sell. That old bridle you no longer use might just pay for a days XC schooling with your horse.
6) Plan your diary - The show schedules are coming out thick and fast now. Take a break one evening from work, sit down with a glass of wine (if you're over 18!) and get your competition diary sorted. There's nothing like being organised!
7) Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date - There's nothing more heartbreaking than arriving at a competition and realising you aren't eligible to compete because your vaccinations aren't up-to-date. Make sure you're organised!
8) Stock up - Remember that time last year when you left an aroma of fly-repellent wherever you walked? It's that time again! Head to your local tack shop and stock up on fly repellents, sun tan lotion for pink noses and any other spring and summer supplies you might need!
9) Go to the beach - It sounds cliche, but everyones got to do it at least once their life. Box up and take your horse to the beach. Most horses enjoy a paddle in the sea and nothing beats going for a gallop in the sand.
10) Meet up with friends - Organise a girly day at the races or Burghley and Badminton. With the horsey event calendar bursting with things to do, there's no excuse for not sitting down with your friends and enjoying a Pimms or two whilst you watch some horse and riders strut their stuff!
There's plenty to do this spring - get in touch if you've got some other great ideas!
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