As horse show season kicks into gear, preparation is the key to a smooth, safe, and successful experience. From your truck and trailer to your horse to your tack, every detail matters. Use this comprehensive checklist to make sure nothing is overlooked before you hit the road.

Truck & Trailer:  Your journey starts here.  Make safety your top priority.

• Inspection status is up to date
• Check tailgate and floorboards for stability and wear
• Inspect tires and confirm proper tire pressure (including spare)
• Test brakes for responsiveness
• Ensure all lights are functioning (brake, turn signals, interior)
• Thoroughly clean trailer interior
• Add fresh bedding for comfort and hygiene
• Check all hinges and latches for security and ease of use
• Water containers cleaned and filled with fresh water

Horse Readiness:  Your horse’s health and fitness are the foundation for having the best possible performance.

• Conditioning and Hoof Care
  • Ensure appropriate fitness level for competition. Don’t make your horse a weekend warrior. Adequately prepare your horse for the demands that will be placed on them for show season. Some disciplines use the early part of the show season to aid in that fitness level so there is a gradual progression of fitness throughout the season, culminating in having your horse at peak fitness for a particular competition.
  • Schedule farrier visit prior to competition to make sure shoes will be in good working order (consider discipline-specific or special shoes)
• Veterinary Care
  • Vaccinations
  • Dental examination
  • Renew Coggins test
  • Soundness/performance exam completed:
    • Flexion tests
    • Consider joint injections if needed
    • Chiropractic adjustment, if part of your performance program
    • Acupuncture
• Documentation
  • Copy of current, negative, Coggins Test
  • EHV-1/EHV-4 forms completed, if required.
  • Passport (for recognized competitions/travel)
  • Microchip verified and registered
  • Health certificates for travel across state lines or if required by governing body
    
    

Tack Check:  Well-maintained tack ensures both safety and performance.

• Clean and condition all tack
• Check stitching for signs of wear and have leather repaired or replaced if needed
• Inspect for cracks or weak spots in leather
• Confirm proper saddle fit for comfort and performance
  
  

Riding Clothes:

• Make sure everything is clean and fits properly
• Hair-net
• Helmet
• Boots cleaned and polished
• Belt
• Safety vest with CO2 containers, if used.

First Aid Kit Essentials:  Be prepared for the unexpected (for both horse and rider):

• Thermometer
• Leg wraps and bandages
• Antiseptic cleaner
• Topicals (e.g., SSD cream, Manuka honey)
• Blunt-ended scissors
• Medications (Banamine, Phenylbutazone, Gastrogard)
• Refill and renew any regular prescriptions
• Human first aid kit with Band-Aids, antiseptic cleanser, antibacterial cream, anti-inflammatory, and sunscreen.
  
  

Final Thoughts

This by no means is a complete check list, but a guideline to get you thinking about how you should best prepare you and your horse for success. Preparation isn’t just about avoiding problems, it’s about setting you and your horse up to perform with confidence. Taking the time to run through this checklist ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your ride and enjoy the competition experience.

Safe travels and best of luck this show season!