6 horsey jobs you must do during September

You’ve probably noticed over the last week or so that the days are slowly beginning to get shorter and the nights are getting cooler. This is a sign that autumn will be upon us shortly. Are you ready for it? If not, don’t panic as you’ve got until 22nd September which is when it officially starts. Preparation is the key. So here are 6 jobs you need to start planning to ensure a hassle-free time that means you can concentrate on your riding…

1 - Sort out your pots and potions

The last thing you want to do when the weather’s wet and windy, is to be scrabbling around for lotions and potions. So check your grooming kit and first aid box to ensure that you’ve got everything you need to provide the best care possible.

2 - Do a full service

Give your horse a full service just like you would do with your car! Check his vaccinations are up to date, plan your worming schedule and get his teeth checked so that he can get the most from his food. The last few warm days are the best time to give your horse one last bath before it’s too cold. This will see him through until next year.

3 - Adjust feed

If you expect to reduce the amount of exercise your horse gets or if you know he’s more lively when it’s cooler, consider reducing his hard feed as this will reduce the amount of sugar in his blood and, in turn, his energy! Any adjustment needs to be carefully planned along with any corresponding increase in hay.

An increase in hay is necessary when the goodness in the grass drops. You may not necessarily notice this yourself from looking at the grass. So look out for the tell-tale sign, e.g. if your horse’s weight drops noticeably. I’ve noticed that only this week with my horse and I’ve increased his hay, admittedly only by a few pounds.

4 - Get those clippers ready

Dust off your clippers, get them serviced or your blades sharpened. Think about how much oil you need and make sure you've got some handy.

5 - Rug audit

Obviously you’re going to need your rugs over the following weeks and months, so get ahead of the rush that occurs for rug cleaning and repairs or if you need new rugs, take a look at the great selection of horse rugs on offer at EQUUS. 

6 - Plan ahead on bedding

Think about what bedding you require if your horse will be stabled from autumn onwards or if the duration of time he’s stabled will increase as the amount of bedding you’ll use will inevitably increase. Get a few of your horsey friends together and place a bulk order to qualify for a discount. Think about where you can store it that’s easy and accessible to all of you whatever the weather.

Calculate the quantity you all require weekly and then multiply it by the number of months required then add a small percentage for contingency just in case a horse ends up on box rest. Place your order early to guarantee delivery and at a time that suits you.

Have you got any Autumn tips for our readers? Share them in the comments below! You never know, your tip could really help someone else!