Getting ready for the new season

EVERYONE deserves a holiday and horses spending most of the winter outside, before being brought in and rugged up, seem to lose their winter coats quicker than those spending all winter inside. This is probably due to the sudden change in temperature and diet.

However, any horses which are particularly hairy may benefit from having excessive hair under the stomach, chest, underside of the neck and jaws clipped as soon as they come in. It will then grow back to match the rest of the coat before the season starts.

Do not let horses get too fat or too lean over the winter. If feed can be increased gradually as they get more work, muscle and condition will go on in the right places.

If you need to get your horse measured, do this before you get him shod. Be aware that this year, the Joint Measurement Board has introduced a new rule stating all animals must be micro-chipped before they can be measured.

It may be advisable to have this done advance at home to avoid any additional stress at measuring time. If planning a vet's visit, check all vaccinations are up to date. All vets are qualified in horse dentistry, so get them to look at your horse's teeth as well. Routine examination and necessary treatment may avoid disruption to your plans later in the season.

Likewise, it may be beneficial, particularly with a new horse, to get him checked over by an equine physiotherapist to make sure there are no hidden problems before you start serious work.

Apply for any necessary registrations – they may take a while to be returned and you may need the relevant paperwork to make entries.

Check all tack and equipment still fits and deal with any repairs or renewals. Riding clothes may also need adjustment or replacing – inches can be gained or lost over the winter and children grow. Do not wait until the night before an event to discover clothes no longer fit.

Finally, when you are ready to make your seasonal appearance, it is always a good idea to have a trial run. Teach-in, clinics and practice shows are an ideal way to make sure you are fully prepared before the real thing. They also give horses and ponies the chance to work with others and get used to being out and about again before it really matters.