Since we kicked off our very first newsletter (see the archives!) back in January 2007, Tips & Tricks have been a big hit with readers. We're always on the lookout for more, so please do share! Send 'em to TheGals@longridersgear.com.
If we use your trick or tip in a future newsletter we'll send you a sweet discount code!
Have a safe spooky holiday out there... and Happy Trails!
The Gals at Long Riders Gear
One Dozen Tips & Tricks
Clean & Clear for Winter - Dust and debris is bad for us and our equines, so clear it out before poor weather hits. Sweep off walls, beams, stalls, and aisles in preparation for being closed up for most of the winter. Take it a step further and wash out those feed and water buckets, disinfecting them with a tablespoon of bleach in a full bucket.
Prevent Ice Hazards - Fill in holes and hollows in front of gates and doors where water might sit and turn into icy hazard.
Easy Winter Buckets - Rubber buckets are easier to knock the ice out of when water freezes, unlike plastic buckets which can crack or shatter. Rubber buckets can have a higher initial cost but they may fair better through harsh winters.
Prevent Snowball Feet - If snow packs into your horse’s hooves try smearing the bottom with petroleum jelly.
Sparkling White - Baby powder will make white socks truly white and won’t attract dust like some other methods.
Suck it Up! - Not only will grooming go faster with a vacuum, but your horse will be cleaner. And that wet/dry shop vac you probably already own will do the job! It may take a few days to accustom your steed to the racket, but when you do you'll have a racket-proof horse and a lightening-quick grooming routine pared down to a quick curry and a five-minute vacuum treatment.
Consider the Gutter & Rain Barrel - Gutters and downspouts can direct the torrent of rain that comes off barn roofs away from entryways lessening water, ice and mud buildup. An average 1,000 sq. ft. roof will produce over 600 gallons of water from one inch of rain! Why not install a rain barrel to conserve some of that water?
Beeswax Wonder - Beeswax softens leather! It also adds a great new shine to boots.
Sparkling Like New - Put your bits and spurs in the dishwasher to get them really clean! Once sparkling, be sure to dunk the bit in water immediately after each use to keep it that way.
Quick Picking - Hoof picks are cheap. Always use a sharp one to remove rocks and debris, and replace the pick when it no longer does the job easily.
Tarnish Free - Mix vinegar and salt to clean brass or copper harness, saddle, or bridle fittings. About 1 tsp salt to 1 cup vinegar usually does the trick. Rub it on and then wipe off with a damp cloth, or soak the item in a jar of the mixture, then rinse it off well. Vinegar alone will also remove rust residue from metal objects.
Coconut Oil Wonder – To condition your horse’s tail, just wash, slather some coconut oil on, braid it loosely and cover it in a tail bag. It works absolute wonders, plus, as an added bonus your horse's tail will smell like Hawaii.
More Tips & Tricks!...
Trick or Treat!
Is your horse getting costumed up for Halloween? Perhaps the kids are doing their trick or treating on horseback or your riding buddies are gathering for holiday fun. We'd love to see! We're always on the lookout for great horse or ride photos of all kinds. Send them to TheGals@longridersgear.com. If your photo is chosen for use on the website or in a future newsletter we'll give you a discount on your next order!
| 
