Lists

Lists of lists -

These are by no means "ALL INCLUSIVE"

Trail Riders dayride checklist

Classic Ten Essentials

1. Map

2. Compass

3. Sunglasses and sunscreen

4. Extra Clothing

5. Flashlight/Headlamp

6. First-aid Supplies

7. Firestarter

8. Matches

9. Knife

10. Extra food

Updated Ten Essential "Systems"

1. Navigation

2. Sun protection

3. Insulation (extra clothing)

4. Illumination

5. First-aid supplies

6. Fire

7. Repair kit and tools

8. Nutrition (extra food)

9. Hydration (extra water)

10. Emergency shelter

Additional items for trail rides and camping

Easyboots

Extra saddle pads in case horse develops a rub from the one you plan on using

Tack

Camera

Water bottles/buckets

Saddle bag?

Hat or Helmut

First-Aid kit for horse and rider

Bottle of bug spray

Knife

Gun and ammo (large enough to euthanize a horse)

Balng twine

Pieces of leather

Chapstick

Water bottle carrier for saddle

Hoof pick

“Chicago” screws

“ponytail” holder for those with ponytails

All purpose mini-tool

Extra girths

Extra socks (for the rider)

Rain gear

Additional items for the Horse or Mule owner/rider

Halters

A halter is the most important accessory. Whether the halter is leather, nylon or a rope halter is up to the individual. However, certain types of halters are traditional in the show ring. Halters generally come in pony, cob, horse, and draft sizes; the halter should be adjusted to fit snugly but comfortably on the horse's head. It is a good idea to have an extra halter in case the first one breaks.

Lead Shanks

The lead shank snaps onto the halter's noseband to allow the owner to lead the horse around. Rope shanks are easiest on the hands, and can double as cross-ties. However, nylon and leather leads with brass chains are preferred in the show ring. Again, it is wise to have extras in case one breaks or gets lost.

Buckets and Feed Tubs

Buckets are needed to feed the horse and carry feed and water around the barn. They can be bought in a variety of sizes and shapes depending on the size of the horse and its intended purpose. Plastic and rubber buckets are the preferred types, although they can also be found in other materials. Buckets are easily attached to walls and fences using eyehooks and double-ended snaps.

Grooming Kit

Grooming kits are essential for maintaining a healthy coat. Fill a tote box with:

	a rubber curry comb to massage the horse's skin and loosen dirt, hair and scurf
	a medium-stiff dandy brush to whisk away the dirt and scurf
	a stiff mud brush to remove heavy, dried mud
	a soft-bristled body or finishing brush to groom sensitive, bony areas and bring out an overall shine
	a rub rag to further polish the horse's coat
	a mane comb or hair brush for combing out tangles in the mane and tail
	a hoof pick to extract manure and stones from the feet
	hoof ointment or dressing to condition and polish the hooves
	pair of scissors to trim the fetlocks and tail
	sponges to clean the nose, eyes, sheath, udder and under the tail
	bottle of fly spray to protect your horse from bugs

First Aid Kit

Because accidents do happen in the stall or out in pasture, purchasing a pre-packaged kit or assembling a kit is good horse care. Ask your veterinarian about adding a stethoscope and a basic anti-inflammatory medication to the kit. Other items, which should be included are:

			Veterinarian thermometer
			Jar of petroleum jelly
			Jar of topical antibiotic cream
			Bottle of antibacterial soap
			A few ace bandages
			Roll of adhesive tape
			Sterile gauze sponges and pads
			One or two "instant" chemical ice packs
			Pair of tweezers
			Pair of scissors
			Bottle of hydrogen peroxide
			Roll of absorbent "practical cotton"

Saddle

Whether riding Western or English, look for a saddle which fits the rider and horse properly. The saddle includes the girth/cinch, stirrup leathers for English and stirrups for Western. This purchase is one which should be researched in depth before choosing. Look for quality; check that the stirrup leathers are strong and well stitched, the stirrups for western should be wide enough for the rider's feet, and the girth needs to fit around the barrel of the horse. If possible, talk to a "saddle fitter" and learn how to make a pattern of the horse's back to use when choosing a saddle. A saddle pad is also needed. Preferably, one that is machine-washable.

Bridle and Bit

Like the saddle, quality materials and workmanship are important. Choose the correct type of bridle, bit, and reins for the discipline of riding. It is very important to measure the horse's mouth before choosing the size of bit, an improperly fitted bit can hurt and cause discipline problems with the horse. Many riders need several bridles: a plain bridle for everyday, and a fancier leather bridle for show.

Leather Cleaning Supplies for Tack

Purchase a leather cleaner, sponges, and terry cloth towels to periodically clean all the leather tack. This will keep it in good condition and help it to last longer. Choices for supplies include glycerin and castle soap, neatsfoot oil, and newer products, which clean, condition, and waterproof the tack all in one-step.

Stall Cleaning Equipment

Horses that spend part of the day inside will need the stall mucked out. A pitchfork, rake, shovel, and muck basket or wheelbarrow will do the job to clean out any manure and wet bedding. Deposit the manure and wet bedding into the muck basket or wheelbarrow and empty it into the manure pile, which should be quite a distance form the barn and paddocks to prevent fly problems. The owner should also clean the paddock from time to time to prevent infestations of flies and worms.

Horse Clothing

At times, it is necessary to blanket the horse depending on the season and whether or not the horse is clipped. A lightweight stable sheet, a heavier stable blanket, and a turnout sheet may all need to be used. Consider polo bandages and/or boots to protect and support the horse's legs during exercise, turnout, or transporting. A fly mask is also useful in warm weather to prevent insects from irritating the horse's eyes.