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Preparing for the Sales RingBy Kentucky Equine Research Staff · January 18, 2011
If your young or mature horse is headed for the sales ring, it's never too early to start preparing for this event. Things to think about well before the sale include general health (set up a regular schedule of vaccinations, deworming, dental care, and farrier visits); nutrition (evaluate your horse's body condition and gradually work toward changes); performance (practice longing, round penning, or the skills of the horse's particular discipline); manners (reinforce standing up square, tying quietly, walking nicely in hand); and paperwork (vet exams, pedigree, records, registration for sale).
Don't forget mental conditioning. The sales barns and pavilion will be much less frightening to a young horse if he's already taken several trailer rides and been exposed to sights, sounds, and smells that are different from those at home. These trips don't have to involve miles of travel to be effective. Take a calm older horse along on the first few trips to boost your young horse's confidence.
