Horse Crime Rise

Equine crime is a real problem, especially in rural areas and every year hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of horses, ponies and equipment are stolen. These thieves specifically target stables and rural premises as they can be generally low on security and isolated.

Recent news stories have highlighted the scale of this problem. Det Sgt Steve Birchill from the Thames Valley Police said “[The thieves] are going round the areas and taking advantage of the fact that places are left unoccupied or unlocked”. Police are warning and urging people to take greater care in protecting their items.

How to keep your tack secure:

Stable yard security

·         Secure your stable yard with fences, hedges and gates

·         Make sure gates are changed and fitted with anti-lift locks

·         Put theft warning signs on display

·         Fit security lighting, alarms and even CCTV

Tack security

·         Postcode stamp all items.

·         Make sure your tack is always locked away when you aren’t around.

·         Saddles and bridles should be locked to their racks.

·         The doors to your tack room should be reinforced with steel and heavy duty locks.

If you are looking for a secure way to store your horse tack, the Asgard Tack Storage Box offers the best security for your tack.

It has been fitted with a tough 5 point locking system and pick resistant locking mechanism to help prevent tack theft. This tack storage box has also been approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board to Level 1, which may help to reduce insurance premiums. Visit the Asgard website for more information. 

Cleaning your horse tack

Keeping your tack well cleaned and in good condition will help it to last longer.  Here is what you need to know about cleaning your tack. 

Daily care

Try and clean your equipment after each ride, this will make it easier to do a deep clean when you have more time.Wipe off the bit with a clean cloth after every ride, keeping this clean will make it much more pleasant for your horse.Wipe down any part of tack that comes into contact with the horses’ body, to clean off any sweat or dirt.

Cleaning

·         Unbuckle all of the buckle on your bridle and wipe off any excess dirt. Use a damp sponge to work the glycerine soap into the leather, thoroughly clean the buckles and folds in the leather and wipe off any excess.

Conditioning

·         Work in a leather conditioner to your tack before it is fully dry and wipe off any excess and be sure not to use too much conditioner, as this can leave tack flimsy and keep it away from the stitching as this can rot away the thread.

      Mould and mildew

Leather left in moist conditions attracts mould and if you store your tack in damp conditions, it is only a matter of time before it starts to attract mould and mildew. You can tell if your leather has mould, as it will have a white/green powder substance on it. This needs to be treated, because if it is left for a long time it can cause serious damage. To clean mouldy leather use a mix of rubbing alcohol and water (Ratio 1:1), use a damp cloth and wipe down effected areas.  Follow this by conditioning and storing in a dry area. 

Storage

It is important for tack to be stored in a dry place, to keep it in the best condition possible. The Asgard tack storage box provides dry and secure storage for your tack. This tack storage box is made from strong weather proof (galvanised) steel, this solid construction helps to protect your tack from theft. It is incredibly tough, insurance approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board to level 1 and fitted with a strong 5 point locking system and pick resistant locking mechanism, to keep thieves out! In addition there is a rain guard, which keeps strong wind and rain out and a unique ventilation system, which minimises condensation all help to keep the tack storage box moisture free. 

Winter Horse Riding

 Horse riding in the winter can be just as enjoyable as riding in the warmer months, as long as you are properly prepared.  Here are a few tips that will help you and your horse to get through the cold spell.

Dress appropriately

Make sure you wrap up warm and dress in layers. Select items that are warm and waterproof.

Slow down

Work at a slower pace as horses sometimes need time to adjust to the footing if they aren’t used to walking on frozen ground.

Choose a safe route- avoid hazards

A familiar path or route is best for winter riding, riders and horses are less likely to be surprised by unseen hazards. In winter weather conditions it is also safer to go riding with someone else.

Plan an extra cool down

More time will be needed for the horse to cool down after a ride, before returning to the stall.  Try a horse cooler to prevent chills until their perspiration dries.

Check your equipment

The cold weather can cause problems for riding equipment. The moisture as well as repeated freezing and thawing can harm components especially those made of leather or metal. Make sure you check and condition equipment regularly.

To keep your horse riding equipment in good condition during the winter make sure it is stored away correctly, away from moisture to prevent damage.  For protection from the bad weather and secure storage  Asgard have a secure Tack storage Box perfect for keeping your horse tack and equipment protected. This storage unit is fitted with an integral rain guard to keep strong wind and rain out and a unique ventilation system minuses condensation,  to help stored items stay in great condition.