The Stable Secretary Blog

There is so much to do to get ready for these first horse shows of the year. Not only do the horses need to be fit and ready to compete, but entries, veterinary work, transportation, and other details all need to be planned well ahead of time.

• – Entries submitted by deadline (deadlines vary depending on competition);
• – Deposits sent with entries;
• – Required current vaccinations (i.e. Flu/Rhino within 6 months, EHV 1 and EHV 4 within 3 months for HITS Thermal – remember these must be valid/ updated through the final competition);
• – Current Vaccination Certificate (proof of vaccinations);
• – Current Coggins and Health Certificates;
• – Current Registrations for Horses and Riders for national and international federations (USEF, USHJA, and FEI).

• – Confirm that your entries were received;
• – Confirm the total number of stalls reserved (including horses, tack, feed, and other storage stalls);
• – Confirm housing (hotel rooms and dates, rental information, or camper parking and logistics);
• – Confirm transportation for horses (check timing, route, number of horses, paperwork, etc);
• – Place an initial feed and bedding order;
• – Finish all routine vet work well in advance (joint injections, vaccinations, worming, etc), especially if your horses have a long trailer ride;
• – Communicate plan for shipping (feed before and during trip, watering, blanketing, any special medication, etc.).