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8 things we ALL need this summer.

The sun is shining, the the grass is green and the horse flies are unfortunately very much present! That can only mean one thing, it’s officially summer!  I’m Evie Toombes, one of this years Jump 4 Joy’s ambassadors, alongside riding I also love writing so can’t wait to share some blogs with you on here. To get to know me a little better (and perhaps pick up some summer tips) I’ve rounded up my top 8 ‘must have’ things for summer! 

 

1.Electrolytes

Staying hydrated in the heat can be a huge challenge for all of us especially when we’re exercising regularly, and it’s no difference for our horses. I know many people view them as being a ‘fad’ or luxury item, but I’d really encourage people to integrate it into their feeding regime or at least keep a small amount in your feed room. Electrolytes are vital for so many natural bodily functions such as muscle contraction, nerve function and aiding digestion for your horse, they’re lost in two main ways- exercising and losing body salts through sweat, which will increase significantly during the summer months. The rest tends to end up in your wheelbarrow after mucking out; so, it’s worth remembering that sweat isn’t the only contributing factor to needing them, although horses that are in regular work are all recommended to be given extra electrolytes.

 

2. Small jug

This seems so simple but I promise it makes a difference. We always keep a small jug in the grooming kit for washing horses off. I've found if you're dunking a sponge into a bucket repeatedly you’ll end up with a bucket of dirty water by the third or fourth 'dunk' and therefore will be trying to clean your horse with dirty water. By topping up a small jug with your bucket of water and then dipping your sponge into the jug it means the water stays clean, your horse stays fresh and makes bath time a whole lot easier. 

 

3. HI VIS jacket

A fluorescent vest or jacket is an essential piece of my everyday kit, for multiple uses whether it be for at home or away. If I’m at a busy shows late at night, there are often horses loading and lorries reversing in the car park which can be dangerous at times, especially when it gets dark. Just holding a fluorescent means people can notice me and accidents can be avoided. I’ve attended some shows where it is mandatory to wear a HI VIS jacket when riding from stable to arena and both riders and drivers appreciated the procedure put in place. I also hack out regularly in the summer and although I don’t use many roads I still encounter cars and heavy farm machinery alongside runners, cyclists and dog walkers. Being visible helps prevent so any accidents and stops the dreaded ‘what if’ feeling should an accident happen that could’ve been avoided had I been visible. Daisy does have a rather sizeable bottom, although I still wouldn’t like it to meet with a car or road user- so it’s better safe than sorry, regardless of any ‘fashion police’ who may disagree.

 

4. Hoof oil

A lot of people look for ways to keep their horse’s hooves happy in the summer when the ground begins to dry up a little (compared to the typical British downpour weather). The myths of standing your horse in water to soften the hooves will only weaken the hoof, making it even more vulnerable to breaking. The hoof wall itself cannot absorb nutrients, so applying a hoof oil or product regularly that acts as a barrier helps to keep their tootsies happy and to prevent any symptoms from occurring or progressing in the first place- whilst keeping your farrier happy, too! In the long run, a hoof oil that prevents any issues is a lot cheaper than trying to fix those problems- so it’s well worth applying regularly.

 

5. First aid kit

Horses have taught me a lot of things, one of which is to expect the unexpected. We can easily fall into the mindset of ‘it won’t be me’ but should you or your horse ever sustain any minor injuries, having a first aid kit for the both of you to hand can be really valuable, especially when time is of the essence. Whether it's cutting yourself on a gate post or your horse overreaching in the field, keeping some essentials like vet wrap, antiseptic, painkillers, round ended scissors etc in a box or buying a ready-made kit can be hugely useful and also provide peace of mind to help keep summer fun. I’ve barely touched on the contents of a first aid kit but wanted to give you an idea of what some contain, it's advisable to speak to your local vet or even tack store that can help sort a kit for you, if you’re not buying a ready to go kit.

 

6. Ice lick

I know a lot of riders are partial to an ice lolly on a hot sunny day (alongside my magnum loving shetland, Jay!). Frozen ice licks are great for your horse to enjoy and keep them entertained and cool, plus it’s pretty inexpensive too. Try using an old ice cream tub or lick tub and filling it with water, carrot and apple pieces alongside some fresh mint before freezing for a treat they’re sure to love. 

*I’m aware some people add cold brew tea to the mixture for extra flavour but I’d definitely avoid this due to tea containing caffeine. Caffeine is a prohibited substance under most competition rules, due to potential performance enhancement. Although sharing is often caring, it’s not a good idea to share your tea, coffee, chocolate bar or lucozade with your horse, especially if you’re competing. I’d stick to some mint or a dash of fresh juice for flavouring.*

 

7. Good friends

I think it’s fair to say how enjoyable our sport can be, especially when you have like-minded horsey friends. Summer wouldn’t be the same without making memories with your horses and friends, so although it seems simple, let’s not forget how much better riding can be when it’s with friends… especially when it includes tip no.8 below!

 

8. A set of Jump 4 Joy show jumps

No summer would be complete without some fun, whether it be competitive or leisurely. Having some brightly coloured show jumps to match the weather is the perfect way to spruce up your holiday- life is far too short for dull show jumps! So, get yourself a set of fences worthy of showing off and breaking a sweat for this summer.