It’s showtime, but what did I forget

Get ready . . . get set . . . Show!!!!

Yes it’s finally that time.  Are you out there already showing your horse’s best side as well as yours?  Good for you.  Or are you just getting started and have absolutely no idea what you are supposed to be doing?  Don’t fret, the newby jitters get everyone at first.  Just ask anyone in the warm-up pen or show ring.

But let’s back-up a bit.  Did you remember to get that all important Coggins test first?  Or did you forget to ask the vet when he was out giving the routine shots?  Well it’s not a complete disaster, but until you get this particular test done and the test result papers in your hand, you can’t show.  Not one single show I know of will even let you unload your horse without it.  Or, I should be more specific, not one show will let you unload or show without a negative Coggins.

If you board your horse, the barn management probably requires a yearly Coggins.  So you may already have it.  Just make sure you have an official copy from the vet (not a photo copy).  If you forgot, just call the vet & set-up an appointment to have this test done.  It’s just a simple blood test.  Most shows in my area will accept a Coggins test if it was done within a year.  There are a few shows that will require a Coggins done within 6 months.  Now the really big national or world shows may also require health papers that were issued within 30 days prior to the show.  Be sure to check the show rules for the particular show you are going to for any other vaccination requirements.  If you are traveling across state lines, be sure to check what each state will require.

If you can’t remember everything, try making a list.  Put things in order of importance in the the month it needs to be done.  If you are techincal, keep the list in your PDA, laptop or whatever type of electronic device is your preference.  If you are not technically inclined, keep a notebook, day-timer or calendar handy with all of the important things on it.  You can check them off as they are done.  You will also be able to add, change or delete anything as needed.  But the most important thing about your list is to look at it.  Look at it more than just the time it takes to make it.  Look at the list at the very least once a week .

With all of the health papers in order, this will be a little less stressful when going to a show.