Owning a horse also means that you need to own a few essential pieces of equipment so you can take care of it properly. Not only that, but you can also enjoy and maximize your horseback riding experience with the help of these accessories. If you have a country property, you may already own some horse accessories, such as wheelbarrows, pitchforks, and shovels, all used to clean up after your horse. But, there are some special accessories that you need to buy from your local tack shops like the tack for driving and riding a horse.
Things like bridles, bits, and saddles might be exciting to buy before you get your horse home, but it is always best to wait. This will allow you to custom fit your horse and find what’s makes you comfortable and happy. Other accessories such as lead ropes, brushes, and buckets can be purchased before you get your horse home; this way, they are all just waiting to be used when your horse arrives. Another great tip is that make sure that you have several weeks’ supply of supplements, hay, and grain. Make sure that all your fence and stable are ready to be vacated, too. If you’re going to stabilize your horse, it is best to prepare a type of bedding the night before your horse arrives. It is also best if you could gather a good supply of clean and fresh water for your horse, too.
Without further ado, here are the accessories that you will need if you want to take care of your horse personally.
Feeding Equipment
- Feed pan to practice individual feeding.
- Large buckets or water trough
- Feed container that is made from plastic or metal and has a secure lid to prevent rodents from holding feed
- Heated buckets or, if possible, a water heater. You may need this, especially if you live in a place that experiences freezing temperatures.
Handling and Grooming
- Mane comb
- Cloth, take note that you can use an old but absorbent washcloth
- Fly repellent
- Blankets for cold weather
- Sweat sheet if it gets freezing
- Halter
- Lead ropes
- Hoof pick
- Curry comb
- Body brush
Riding
Once you get your horse, you will probably have to decide if you want to ride either English or western style. This is because determining which style you want will help you decide on which type of tack you should buy. On the other hand, to make sure that the saddle fits like a glove, it is best if you should buy one after you’ve brought your horse home. If you’re really excited, you can go and try any saddle you’re thinking of buying. Here are the other things that you need before you ride your horse:
- Helmet
- Stirrups and stirrup leathers
- Saddle with girth or cinch
- A saddle pad or blanket
- Bridle and bit
- Optional: lunge line
- Optional: lunge line, tendon boots, bell boots, tendon boots, and any other accessories that promote better leg support. Do not forget to buy things that can add protection to the horse.
Driving
There are several types of harnesses for horseback riding that are available in the market. The type of harness will depend on the heaviness of your horse.
- Driving whip
- Helmet
- Harness with bridle
- A safe, sturdy vehicle
Barn and Pasture Maintenance
- Fire extinguisher
- Spare lightbulbs
- Extension cord
- Pitchfork
- Stable broom
- Wheelbarrow
- Manure Fork
- Lastly, a secure, dry place where you can adequately store feed, hay, tack, and other supplies.