The Show Bag
Horse Show Hangovers are real and I am on the struggle bus. We just got back from a 3 day show in Ardmore, OK that saw lots of rain and wild swings in temps (80’s and humid to 40’s and icy wind, brrr) as well as some of my best rides and scores. It was a fun time had by all. NRHA knows how to run smooth, hassle free shows.
As I was packing for the show I decided I would share my go-to items I always want on hand for my horse. My trainer brings my horse and most of the must-needed essentials but I have a few special items I like to have.
First things, first: How cute is this large canvas tote from Stylish Equestrian. It is inspired by Marc Jacob’s popular The Tote Bag. This extra roomy tote has leather handles and two deep side pockets to hold all the equestrian essentials. I sprayed mine with ScotchGuard to help it repel dirt and dust.
This is what I filled it with:
Back On Track Mesh Sheet and Back On Track Quick Wraps: I am such a fan of all Back On Track products and this mesh sheet helps ease any back soreness (my horse has a sway back) and the quick wraps ease any leg soreness or swelling.
IncrediWear Exercise Bandages: These polo wraps are beyond amazing. When dry and used during exercise they increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage and when wet (rinsed off after a ride) they create an icing effect.
Thermaflex Liniment Gel and Sore No More Liniment: Hands down my favorite liniments. Thermaflex Liniment Gel is easy to apply to hard to reach areas like hocks and stifles and stays put on lower legs. Sore No More is an all-natural liniment that provides gentle cooling and can be used under wraps. I love that it comes in a spray bottle that is easy to apply. I can attest to the fact that it works too, because I have used it on myself many times.
Equioxx: For the same reason we need an NSAID like Advil or Tylenol after a long day of riding and showing so do our horses. Equioxx comes in a small pill that fits easily in a soft horse cookie.
UlcerGuard and Equine Elixir’s Tummy Gummies: Studies have shown that horses can develop ulcers just moving them to a different pasture. So I like to protect my horse by keeping him on a daily dose of UlcerGuard thru the entire show. Equine Elixir’s Tummy Gummies are the horse version of Tums (antacid) and are a great treat to give before and after showing to help any acid issues.
Electro-Plex Electrolytes and Gallagher’s Water: My horse works hard and sweats at horse shows and these are my go-to for replacing any lost electrolytes. Gallagher’s Water is a great after our class treat and all my horses love it.
Haas Diva Soft Brush: This amazing brush is made from super soft lambswool bordered with fine horse hair and it brings the show ring shine. One or two swipes with this brush and no shiny spray is needed.
Horse Cookies: Last but not least, it wouldn’t be a bag of mine without horse cookies. Every horse deserves a treat after every ride. Equine Confections and Snaks 5th Avenchew are my favorite cookie makers because they have such cute designs that my horses love to eat. I also keep a supply of Dimple’s Horse Treats on hand because they have an easy to feed pill pocket and soft texture that make giving Equioxx easy.
