Category: Horse Supplies

Getting Ready for a Horsey Holiday and Horsey New Year! (Part One!)

12/18/2020

While we prepare for the holiday season and a brand New Year, don't forget about your checklist for preparing your horses, stables, and barns for the coming cold weather. Let's step into the New Year prepared and ready to keep you and your best friend happy and healthy!

Hello, trail friends! Welcome back to the blog! We hope this bright and brisk holiday season has been off to a good start for you and your loved ones. We are feeling very festive here at Middleton, and everyone on our staff and each of our horses is so excited to see the holidays this year! While it might feel a little different than holidays gone by, there is still so much to celebrate! Are you still looking for the perfect gifts to give? Shop small and give big, give the gift of Middleton this year! Introduce your loved ones to the joy of horses or surprise the horse lover in your life with the perfect gift! To purchase your gift cards follow the link below!

https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/middletonequestriancenter/items/

Are you looking for the best horseback riding in Charleston? You've found it! While you're shopping and running around for everyone else in your life, take a moment and give something back to yourself! We are currently offering our stunning historical trail rides, which we know you'll love. Enjoy the beautiful (brisk!) Lowcountry winter weather, and the wonderful Lowcountry landscape while social distancing on the back of a beautiful horse! While we are all preparing for the holidays in our unique ways, we still need to remember our horses and their barns or stables this time of year. It will get cold soon and we need to prepare for a brand new year that is coming right around the corner. As our gift to you this holiday season, we wanted to share a checklist and some ideas on how to prep for the coming cold weather, and how to prepare for this upcoming new year! In this two-part blog series, our goal is to help you make this the safest season for your horse and yourself. It's time to get started if you haven't begun your wintertime prep, so let's get started together!

WINTERTIME CARE CHECKLIST
We are big proponents of being prepared. Getting ready for the changing seasons as soon as you can, can help keep you and your horses safe and healthy, and it can also help you save a ton of money and worry. While we in the Southeast might not experience below zero temperatures, bad ice storms, and feet of snow, these things are still possibilities on a much smaller scale. Temperatures will still be cooler, lots of rain and mud are in our future, and frost and ice will still be lingering the deeper we get into December and January. Please take this checklist and these preparations seriously. Your horses will be all the better for it!

PRODUCT CHECK!

Medications can get a little tricky in the wintertime, some just can't withstand cooler temperatures. Go through all medications, supplements, and vitamins for your horses and bring the temperature-sensitive ones into your house or a temperature-controlled building or tack room. While you're doing this, take the time to do a little winter deep clean. Go through all of your perishable items, order new items, and get organized now. Make sure to do the same for any special food or treat items you have in storage for your horses. Dampness, bugs, and mold can creep in where you least expect it. Make sure you're paying very close attention through this process as not to lose money on expired medication or supplements, or to make your horse sick with bad products!
Food! One of the biggest ways a horse stays warm in the wintertime is by burning calories. As the temperature drops, your horse will be burning more calories and it will need to eat more food. If you haven't already, now is the time to buy your winter supply of food and treats. Equus Magazine and Equis Search both recommend that hay be the largest part of your horse's diet in the wintertime. They also urge their readers to remember that your horse will be eating about 2% of its body weight every day to stay warm. For an average 1000 pound horse, according to Equis Search, this will be about 20 pounds of hay per day and 600 pounds of hay per month. One ton of hay, weighing around 2000 pounds, will last a horse between two and three months.
According to Equus.com, it is best to buy about 10% more than you normally would in the wintertime. Stocking up ahead of time can help if deliveries or trips to the store can't be made due to bad weather. They also recommend having an extra two-week supply of feed and supplements on hand just in case too. Just make sure to stay on top of all of your expiration dates if you choose to do this!
Water! During these cold winter months, you'll need to pay closer attention to your horse's water supply than you might think. Typically, your horse will drink 8 to 12 gallons of water every day. According to research found on Equisearch.com, horses prefer to drink water that is about 45 degrees. However, they are drawn to icy water. Even though they are drawn to this icy water, that doesn't mean they will be drinking tons of it. If icy water is the only kind of water available to your horse, they will not be getting enough proper hydration. A decrease in water consumption, according to Equisearch, can lead to colic and other dehydration issues.
Make sure to provide a water source that allows your horses to get the proper hydration they need every day through the wintertime. Heaters, stock tank heaters, headed stall buckets, or heated troughs are great examples to help with this situation. Also, you can break and remove the ice on your horse's water supply in the morning and the evening if that is the only option available to you. Breaking the ice will allow water to naturally heat up a little bit, allowing your horse to drink more.
Older Horses! Please consider your older horses and your horses with dental problems this winter and consider them a little more when it comes to having warmer drinking water available. Cold water will be hard on their gums and sensitive teeth, and it will cause them to drink even less water than their younger companions. If heating elements or additions to your barn or stable aren't an option, warm water from an electric kettle or frost free hydrants can be a quick and cost-efficient addition to help care for your horses.
Storage Wars! You also need to consider storage for your horse's food source. Hay needs to be kept dry and clean, and it needs to be put in a convenient location to make feeding easy. Your hay needs to be stored off the ground, and you need to keep a few inches in between each stack of hay to help with ventilation and preventing rodent issues. Prepare for this storage early! As the weeks grow colder you'll be gathering extra hay in preparation for what's to come. Make sure you have enough storage space, but if you don't, start making room or arrangements for the room. If you don't think you are going to have enough room or space for your wintertime hay and supplies, discuss options with friends, neighbors, and other farmers and horse owners that are close. You can also consider adding to your current barns and stables as well!

MAINTENANCE!

Not only do you need to prepare your horses for the coming months, everything involving them needs a little TLC and attention before it gets too cold and too late into the winter season. Cleaning out your gutters and drain ditches in your barns and stables needs to one of your top priorities. If they're left clogged and dirty, piles of snow and ice will have nowhere to go when they begin to melt. This can cause extreme damage to your roofs, it can tear off your gutters, damage your foundation, and lead to all kinds of structural issues come spring.
Make sure to check all of the ventilation coming in and out of your barn, and to check all electrical systems and lighting systems. Make any repairs and stock up on what other products your barn will need to remain operational through the wintertime.
Give the roof of your horse barn or stables a good look over, and make sure it's ready for any coming weather and repaired from any summer storms.
Heavy snow and ice can bring down a weak section of fencing and can lead to a much bigger headache than just a new repair. Equus Magazine recommends that you spend some time mowing and dragging your fields now before they go to seed and heavy snow takes over. This will help make springtime much more pleasant and manageable for you and your horses. Dragging your fields will also help decompose the manure leftover from the spring and summer months.
Preparations for working in and around your barn are also needed during these cooler months. To help limit the amount of water, snow, ice, and mud that is brought into your barn or stables, bring in footing materials. This can also prevent you and your horses from slipping during these months. It can also help prevent erosion in high traffic areas and help chores and daily tasks be simple and easy to accomplish during these colder and sometimes harsh months.
Also, don't forget about being prepared for winter storms and emergencies. Power could be lost and other dangers could be right around the corner. Make sure you have everything you and your horses need to stay safe and healthy in these situations. Have battery-operated tools and flashlights handy, generators gassed up and ready to go, and make sure your emergency contact list has been made and is stored in an easy access area.

These items and this check-off list should be a good place to get help get you started. If you have any questions between now and part two of this blog, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! If you have any questions about quality products, care products, tools, or grooming products, please also don't hesitate to reach out. We are excited to help make this holiday a special one for you, your horses, and your loved ones. Maybe start by purchasing a gift card for your loved ones, check off as many of these to-do list items as you can between now and our next blog, and come visit us in the meantime. Even in these chilly temperatures, our trails are beautiful. Just wear a few layers, and you'll be all set to go! Don't forget, if your barn or stables aren't ready or equipped for the winter weather, we do offer boarding options for your horses and offer some of the best horse boarding's in South Carolina. If you're interested or have questions, please visit our website now or give us a call! Until we follow up with part two of this blog series, stay safe, and be well. We look forward to seeing you on our trails soon!

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Trinkets for the Trail; Important Accessories and More!

6/16/2020

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Curious about what you might find when riding on our trials or on trails of your own? Here are some important accessories you need to know about!

Happy June, everyone! Let's continue to get back in the saddle one day at a time. When joining us for your next trail ride, there might be a few needed accessories that you might not know what they are or what they do. Don't worry! We are here to help guide you. Also, everything you need for your next visit with us will be provided. We are taking very serious steps to keep our guests and employees very safe. Everything you touch and come in contact with will be very safe and clean. But as you prepare to come to visit us, we wanted to share some information about some important trail riding accessories. This information is also great for those who want to explore trails out in the wild or who might want to invest in their trail riding equipment. Don't forget, our historic trail rides are open and available to the public. You don't want to miss this beautiful and unique experience this summer!

Each of the items we will be talking about today makes riding and any experience on or with a horse much more prepared, easier, and comfortable for both parties involved. They help keep the quality of the ride enjoyable and can come in handy to keep you safe and protected in any situation.

Saddle Bags

These are found on either side of your horse's saddle and they are used for storage. They are the exact size, on both sides of the saddle, to make sure your horse stays balanced. They come with plenty of straps to avoid accidents or damage to you, your horse, or what you're carrying inside. They are ideal for long trail rides or if you're riding your horse out for a weekend of camping. They are great for carrying supplies like food, water, and first aid. They are centrally located, so you can access them easily while riding and can see what you're doing. They come in multiple sizes depending on the length of your ride. They can also be insulated, depending on what you need to carry. They come in many different styles, colors, and fabrics for both English and Western-style riding. They have been made for style and endurance purposes.

Feed Bags

These are for our horse companions to enjoy a little snack or dinner on the road. They are great for situations where a horse might compete for food with other horses. They also make group feedings out in the pasture easier for both you and your horse. It makes eating away from their stable much easier, too. You don't have to carry a giant trough with you on your next ride. Feed bags also help prevent your horse from over-eating, eating someone else's dinner, and minimizes the amount of wasted feed.

Bits

These will be found on almost every ride you take. These are the metal pieces, or bits, that fit perfectly within a horse's mouth. They come in all colors, designs, and materials and are measured to fit perfectly within a horse's mouth and over their muzzle. This is done to avoid discomfort or pinching. They are attached to the reins that the rider holds and controls. Bits play a huge part in communication between the rider and their horse. Some riders don't like bits and use something called a hackamore, a biteless bridle. In no way should bits ever be used to punish a horse. They are used to tell a horse what direction to turn, to change their speed and gait, to move in different directions, and to stop. Using a light hand when using a bit is key.

Halters

Not to be confused with a popular cut and fit of tops and dresses, this is lovingly referred to as a horse collar. It can be used as an alternative to a bit. A halter is placed onto a horse's head and is used to lead them around and to secure them while they are not being ridden. They are used to retrieve and hold your horses, too. It helps promote the safety of you and your horse, which is key when out and about in an unknown area. Always use a halter, and make sure to use it properly when riding and tie it securely when you're not riding.

Have you seen or used some of these accessories before? Or are they all new to you? We are excited to help continue and nurture any education when it comes to our beautiful horses and everything it takes to ride them safely and properly. The trails are calling you, so what are you waiting for? Until you join us for your next ride, please continue to stay safe! We are Charleston's premier horseback riding trail, dedicated to keeping you safe while exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry.

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Cold Weather Care!

11/26/2019

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With the temperatures dropping at alarming rates here in the Lowcountry, it's time to get yourselves and your horses ready for winter!

It's been a cooler fall than many of us in the Lowcountry and Southeast expected. It looks like it's going to be a pretty cold winter. So, it's time to get your stables and horses ready for whatever might come our way this year. Dare we say it, maybe even snow!

Important Steps To Follow:

We all move pretty slow in the wintertime, all bundled up and staying inside as much as possible. It's the same for horses. They aren't as active as they are in other seasons, but because they don't have giant horse parkas to put on, they burn a ton of calories to keep themselves and their muscles warm. It's recommended adjusting the feeding amount to a larger quantity to help keep them warm. Grain and hay are both excellent options. Hay is a bit better for the horse in this situation because it creates more heat inside the horse's body while it is being digested.
Horses tend to drink less water in the winter, and dehydration and cold water options can lead to colic and other health issues. Provide them with warm drinking water to keep them hydrated and healthy.
Make sure your barn or stables are winterized and ready for the winter. Any holes, leaks, insulation issues, massive drafts, and other issues need to be taken care of. Make sure there is excellent ventilation in the barn at all times.
Horses can withstand very cold weather conditions thanks to their winter coats. But if their coat gets too wet or disturbed, they can lose body heat very quickly and dangerously. Make sure their skin and coat are in good shape before the cold winter sets in, along with their hoofs. A check-up with the vet as the weather changes is a good idea too!
Blankets can, of course, be used! They help with weather conditions that continue to be wet, snowy, and icy. It helps protect their winter coats. They are also beneficial for young horses, horses whose winter coats might have been sheared off, or if our Southeastern horses aren't used to the sparse - but possible - unnaturally cold snaps. Keep an eye on your horse's coat if you decide to use blankets. Make sure the blankets aren't causing sores or irritation.
Your horses will be spending more time inside during the winter months. Their stables and stalls need to be kept cleaner and cleaned more often to keep up with this.
As much as you can, exercise your horse. Let them walk and run outside as much as the weather allows. Be careful and avoid deep snow and very wet conditions to prevent injury. If you have an indoor training or riding facility, take advantage of it during the colder months. If you can strike up a friendship with other horse owners than have these facilities to use, do it!
Keep horses away from the ice, deep snowdrifts, and other dangerous conditions. Keep snow and ice out of paddocks and outside shelters.
Don't let their hooves get overgrown. Clean out mud, snow, and ice from them after a ride or if they've been outside.
Keep de-worming throughout the colder months.

The winter might seem harsh on you and your horses, but it doesn't have to be. Prepare early and understand that their care might take a little more time than usual. On beautiful winter days, always take advantage of them with your horses and enjoy it as much as possible. Until then, come ride with us and enjoy the changing weather on our beautiful trails!

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A Horse of Your Very Own

10/18/2019

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Owning a horse of your very own can be a very special experience and a lifetime goal. Before you decide to take this very large step, make sure you know everything that goes into the process of researching, buying, and owning a horse.

For many, a dream come true is owning your very own horse. Believe us, we understand that. But, it's not just beautiful fall days filled with glorious rides through your favorite fields and feeding them a few lumps of sugar. There is so much that goes into the purchasing, owning, and caring of a horse. As much as we support the decision, we stress that it's not for everyone. Please take the time to consider this blog as you are deciding to or thinking about buying your very first horse.

Think about it this way. Treat buying a horse like you would any big investment. You must take the time to research, understand the strategies of buying a horse and talk with those who have had serious experiences of their own when buying horses. You don't want to make the mistake of buying a horse that's wrong for you, get frustrated, and then give up on the horse and the dream of owning one. As much as you love them, buying a horse isn't the correct path for everyone. It's a huge emotional, time-consuming, and expensive commitment.
The Book Work

Be very honest with yourself when it comes to how you will be using your horse and the temperament you will need. Don't take on the challenge of overcoming a wild steed or a young hothead that you can't control. Be honest in the amount of time you can invest in spending with, caring for, training, and riding the horse. These are beautiful living creatures that need constant care. Understand the cost of owning a horse, beyond the purchasing price. Will you have a stable and pastures of your own with all the amenities, staff, veterinarian care, and safety precautions that the horse will need? Will you board the horse? What about the care there and the training they offer? Never go over your budget or underestimate what the horse will cost you. Remember, this is a decision that could stick with you for 10, 20, or even 30 years. Only when you can meet all of these and your requirements should you buy a horse.

Stick With The Pros

If it's your first time buying a horse or even if you're still new to the game, put yourself under the tutelage of an experienced horse person and bring them along with you. Bring them with you when you're looking, when you think you've found the right horse, and when you've made the final choice and are buying. Never buy a horse without seeing it and inspecting it first, and never buy a horse online. The experienced horse person can check the horse over and look for things and see things that you might not know or recognize to look for. They can ask more questions and even some you might not know to ask yet. They can shield you and help you deal with an unpleasant or overly aggressive seller. They can also watch you with a very keen eye as you take the horse for a test ride. They can see if the horse is the best fit for you and if you are the best fit for the horse.

Do Your Homework

You don't just need to check the paperwork, lineage, passport, veterinarian documents, and the personality of the horse, you need to do just as much extensive research on the seller of the horse too. Ask around in groups of prominent owners and sellers of horses, do research on Google, and try to connect with others who have worked with your potential seller in the past. It's easy to be charmed by a convincing seller and get wrapped up in any fabrication that they can weave. You want to make sure their reputation is accurate and one you can depend on. This way you know that what they have to say about your horse is accurate and that they've treated it well. Also, do your research so you know if you're buying at the appropriate price!

We love horses, we love owning horses, and we love caring for horses. But we know the work that goes into this every day. We want you to share this magic with us, but be prepared to face the realities too. If it's not quite time for you to own a horse, you know the best place to horseback in South Carolina! Right here at Middleton Equestrian Center! We can't wait to see you on your next ride!

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Storms and Saddles

10/1/2019

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With hurricane season officially kicked off in the Lowcountry, it's time to prepare not only your homes but also your barns and think of the best plan of action for your animals when a storm is heading your way!

It's not new news that Hurricane Season is officially here in the Lowcountry! Now that we have made it through our first hurricane, it's still incredibly important to stay prepared and on alert until the end of the hurricane season. It lasts through November and even though that's just a few more weeks, that's still plenty of time for anything to start brewing. As a horse owner, it's just as important to prepare your stables and grounds and have an evacuation plan for your horses as you would be for you and your family.

We wanted to share a few helpful hints on how to prepare for a hurricane, how to evacuate, or how to hunker down when you're a horse owner or own a farm of your very own. The first important step is to make sure that you stay informed, make educated decisions, and be prepared to decide anything at a moment's notice. Thanks to incredible Apps and advancements in storm tracking, it's much easier now to understand a storm than ever before. But no matter how intelligent our weather systems might be, the power of mother nature will always win.

The first step is to prepare your barns and grounds. You need to invest in these steps if you are evacuating or hunkering down. Don't wait until the last minute to start preparing. We recommend planning before hurricane season even begins. This way you're prepared no matter what happens!

Make sure all of your horses are up to date on all of their vaccines.
Establish a relationship and create a plan with your community sheriffs, animal control, and other farms around you. This helps just in case disaster hits. If a farmer has stayed and you've left they can act as a good eye for you. Disaster relief will come in the form of your police department and animal control both during and after the storm. Make sure they are familiar with you and your animals so they know to keep an extra eye out just in case the worse does happen.
Make sure your horses have multiple forms of identification. Each horse should have two permanent forms of identification. This could come in the form of a microchip or a brand. They should also have temporary identification that can be worn on them or carried with you that has both yours and their information on it.
Have an emergency waterproof care kit that's full of basic medical supplies prepared and ready to go at a moment's notice.

If a storm decides to head your way, it is your personal choice to stay or evacuate. Once you have prepared for the storm, and you decide to evacuate, there are still some important steps to take care of before you get on the road.

It is recommended to get on the road ahead of the storm and the traffic. If you can, leave three days out. This can avoid those horrible traffic jams, make it easier to travel with large cargo, and helps avoid putting any extra stress on the animals or you.
Have multiple evacuation plans in place with a large shelter or barn waiting for you at the end of your destination is key. Having multiple plans in place helps when a storm likes to change its path. This gives you more choices to stay out of the way of the storm's path.

If you decide to stay, it's best to take your preparation stages to the next level. Remember to put the safety of yourself, your employees, and your animals first. Make sure the decision to stay has been made with good intentions behind it. Sometimes if you can leave, it's better to take that opportunity than not.

Remember flooding and storm surges can be the most devastating when you least expect it. If you're in a flood zone prepare for that. Use sandbags and other damming items to protect your barns and other buildings.
Don't let the horses out of the barn until the storm has passed, and flood waters have receded. Have extra bedding on hand to make sure they stay clean through the storm and have a place to go when nature calls.
Make sure you're prepared with extra supplies, food, and medical equipment for the animals and anyone staying on the property. Make sure you have a ton of extra water stored safely, along with extra hay stored in loft areas to be kept dry.
Have a generator on hand ready to go with plenty of extra batteries, flashlights, and any other important tools to help during the storm and after. This could include a chainsaw, axes, rope, etc.
Remove anything from the walls or ceilings of the barn that could fall and hurt the animals.
Having a strong and reliable staff on hand just in case the worst happens is always a help. They can keep the horses calm and cared for through the worst until the storm passes.

No matter what you decide to do during a hurricane, always make safety your number one priority. We hope that these tips help you stay prepared for this hurricane season and many more to come. We will see you next time!

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It's Back in the Saddle (Again!)

9/22/2019

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One of the most important pieces you'll ever buy when owning a horse is its saddle. But with so many different types of riding, what saddle is right for you?

When it comes to buying a saddle, it should never be something that you scrimp on. It is an item worth investing in since you'll possibly be spending a lot of time in it and it is a huge part of your safety while riding. But it can be daunting when it comes to buying a saddle knowing and deciding which one is the right one for you. The normal range you'll find on a basic saddle is between $100 and $500, but once it comes to custom saddles and custom needs, it could easily dip into the thousands. But when it comes to comfort and your safety, sometimes adding those extra zeros is worth it. Originally, a horse was ridden without a saddle, which was called bareback riding. Did you know the Chinese were the ones to invent the saddle?

When you are in the market of buying a saddle, it needs to be fit to your shape, size, and style of riding you plan on doing. Have a saddle master inspect the horse you'll be using the saddle for too. The saddle master will need to know what disciplines the horse will be doing from general riding, to hunting, competition, and so on. There are so many options out there, but we hope this helps you narrow down your options!

General Purpose Saddle
- This type of saddle is perfect for a beginner or intermediate rider. It can be used for various types of riding and helps a new rider balance well in the saddle. You will find these on farms where they offer trail rides and also at riding schools. These saddles can accommodate so many different people and different levels of knowledge.

Kids Saddle
- These saddles are used for young children riding small ponies. They are a very lightweight saddle and allows a young rider to be balanced in the seat and stay balanced. This saddle offers a handle they can easily grab onto and use for balance. These saddles are also made to fit a wide range of ponies.

Australian Stock Saddle
- This saddle is one of the most popular saddles for riders that spend a lot of time in the saddle and plan on doing all kinds of disciplines. It has a deeper seat, with a higher pommel that comes with a horn. It also has extra padding for the knees too. There is padding under the seat and an additional form of safety with an over girt strap. It comes with long ions to support your legs and feet which is perfect for long trail rides, too.

There are Western saddles, which are used by actual cowboys. There are sidesaddles which were designed to keep women ladylike while riding in the middle ages. Other saddles include dressing saddles, jumping saddles, hunting saddles, and racing saddles. There are also certain saddles made specifically for long hours in the saddle and are a little more expensive than your basic saddles. Some of these include the Abetta Saddle, the Allegheny Mountain Trail Saddle, and the Tex Tan Saddle.

We promise that it is worth the time to research your saddle and taking the time to find the perfect fit. You should invest just as much time researching a saddle as you would a car, a house, and anything that would keep you safe and comfortable. The next time you visit us for a day of trail riding, ask your trail leader about the styles and types of saddles found in our barns. They will be impressed with your knowledge of what you learned here today!

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What Makes a Stable

9/2/2019

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When you come to visit us at Middleton to enjoy our beautiful land, take a ride on one of our majestic horses, and to enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry have you ever wondered what makes up a perfect horse stable?

We pride ourselves on having the best horses in the Lowcountry and the best trails to enjoy the Lowcountry in a unique and beautiful way. But we are also very proud of the stables that our incredible employees that keep our stables immaculate and our horses happy and healthy. But have you ever thought what exactly you need to keep a stable functioning and up to everyday work? Some of these items might not surprise you, but some of them just might!

A lot of what you need to have a functioning horse stable is very practical and might already be found around the house. A lot of it is inexpensive and will make life a lot easier. The current collection of items in your stable will keep you organized, help keep a cleaner barn, and keep you and your horses safe. Our employees make it look so easy!

When you are getting ready to build or create your own horse stable avoid getting stressed and think about categorizing what you need into four different categories.

Horse Barn and Stable Supplies
Horse Arena Supplies OR Trail Riding Supplies
Horse Staff Supplies
Tack Room Supplies

The list of items below is what we recommend you always have around, especially if you are a first-time stable owner!

1. Contact List
Make sure you have all of your important contacts where you can find them. This includes your Veterinarian, back up Veterinarian, Equine Dentist, Farrier (someone who trims and shoes horses' hooves), transport in case of an accident, and all the numbers of your employees. Also, having a list of handy places that deliver food to your area doesn't hurt either. Caring for horses and their well being means long hours, and you will need to eat too!

2. Mini Fridge
This might sound weird, but it's not used for what you think. A lot of medication and supplements that your horses might and will be taking throughout their lifetime need to be stored in a refrigerator. Keeping it on hand and close to your horses is best.

3. Coffee Grinder
Again, this isn't used for what you think. Your horses might have issues swallowing large pills or supplements. You can grind them in the coffee grinder and add the powder to your horse's food or water. You can also turn the powder into a paste and use a syringe to put it into your horse's mouth.

4. Basic Medical Supplies
Even if you aren't a vet or have a vet on staff, it is always important to have basic medical supplies and equipment on hand. Accidents happen and sickness can occur. A vet might not be readily available or close if your barn is in a very rural place. As you are stocking your barn in preparation check in with your veterinarian for the best suggestions for your store of supplies.

5. Hand Sanitizer
This can be more beneficial than soap and water. It can be readily available and carried on your person no matter what a day at the barn could bring. From the birth of foals to trail rides, your hands will be clean.

6. Baby Wipes
Everyone who owns or keeps a horse strives to keep them clean, groomed, and show ready. But try as anyone might, horses get dirty. Keep these on hand to wipe out basic dirt and gunk from your horse's eyes, muzzles, nostrils, ears and for touch-ups all over their bodies.

7. Wide Barn Aisles
This architectural choice isn't just for you and the horses to use but also for tractors and vehicles to get in and out of the barn. Also, have large entrance doors into the horse's stalls ready to handle whatever mood the horse might be in when transporting them on or off these vehicles.

8, Non-Slip Floors
This is a safety precaution for you, all barn employees, and those visiting the barn. Never have standing water around your horses either!

9. A Well-Stocked and Well prepared Tack Room
A Tack Room is something that every stable should have. This room will store all of the "stuff" you will use to care for the horses that aren't already needed in their stalls. But some barns use it for storage of their trophies and other awards.

10. Bedding
This doesn't mean blankets and pillows for your horse, even though they will wear blankets during cold weather to keep them warm, they will need bedding on the floor of their stalls all year round. The most common material to use is hay and shavings but you can also use wood pellets, paper, moss, hemp, and stall mats!

The next time you come to visit us for a ride at Middleton, take a moment to really see what makes up the stable around you and all the hard workers keeping it clean and fun for you!

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Middleton Place Equestrian Center Blog

Getting Ready for a Horsey Holiday and Horsey New Year! (Part One!)

Trinkets for the Trail; Important Accessories and More!

Cold Weather Care!

A Horse of Your Very Own

Storms and Saddles

It's Back in the Saddle (Again!)

What Makes a Stable

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