FALCON CREEK FARM NEWSLETTER
MAY 2003
SPRING EQUIPMENT SAFETY CHECK
Ah, it’s May and spring is here at last. Seems like it would never arrive! The bitter cold and the snow are finally a
thing of the past. The warmer days are
here and the plants and flowers are in bloom.
The bitter sting of winter keeps many a rider nestled inside and out of
the arena during the blustery winter months.
Now is the time that many folks shake off the winter doldrums, brush off
their horse’s winter coat and mud and climb in the saddle for some long overdue
riding in the warm air and sunshine.
We drag out the brushes, the bridles, saddles, saddle pads and other
miscellaneous equipment that we need to ride and tune up our horses for the
summer. Some folks even get out the
truck and horse trailer with plans of trail riding in the mountains in the
works.
One of the most important parts of riding should
include a basic equipment check of all items you are using on your horse before
you start off the new season. Many items
may have worn over the previous season, come loose, cracked, broke or torn and
become dangerous. A thorough inspection
of each piece of equipment may serve to prevent a serious riding accident later
on.
Things to check include all parts of your bridle and
saddle. Check each strap, each screw
and all leather ties. This includes
helmets, reins, curb straps, buckles, cheek pieces, spurs, cinches, stirrup
leathers, throat latches, the rigging up under the saddle flaps, girths and
even you bits o hackamores. Look for
excessively worn or cracked leather, or metal that might break, or have broken;
look for loose screws or leather rein ties that are thin or frayed or very
dry. If the leather on your saddle or
bridle is dry, consider cleaning, oiling and/or conditioning it. Be careful not to oil the seat or to put too
much on the saddle or reins, as it will soak into your clothing and also onto
your hands. Oiling will also darken
most leathers so beware of that or oil a test area underneath a saddle flap first. Run your hand around the underside of your
saddle and bridle to feel for any rough spots that might be irritating or
injuring your horse. If you find any
irritants and then correct it, you may find yourself with a better mannered
horse!
It is also good idea to check your saddle pads for
wear, excessive dirt build up, or anything that might injure your horse’s back.
If you plan to haul your horse out to trail ride or
ride somewhere else, it is a good idea to have your truck and trailer inspected
by both yourself and a professional.
The trailer should have its wiring system, brakes, floor, doors,
latches, hinges, roof, partition, lights, turn signals, brake lights, tires,
the hitch and all other components checked to make sure they are all in proper
working order. Having the wheel
bearings “packed” or re-greased every year or so is a good idea. A mechanic should inspect you truck to
insure its ability to safely haul horses.
Enjoy your spring and summer riding but make sure
and inspect all of your equipment and gear for any safety hazards that could
pop up and cause an accident.
Happy Riding!!!
Comments and feedback are always welcome!
Leslie
Falcon Creek Farm
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