Spring Tune Up 101

Here at Phoenix Coach Works, we are excited for spring to arrive.  Not only do we escape from dreary, overcast skies but the flora and fauna of nature emerges in its full beauty.  Our equine friends have been dormant for many months and are likely raring to burst from the gate.  But don’t be hasty at the first signs of spring to saddle up and begin your routine.

Like an antique car sitting for many months, or any machine for that matter, there is maintenance to be addressed and a checklist to follow before you hammer the throttle and drop tread.

If your animal and your equipment are not properly tuned for another season of performance, a number of things can go terribly wrong.

Begin your preparation by getting your gear together.  Clean, oil, and inspect each piece, looking for dry-rot, loose screws, rusted buckles, missing straps etc.  Catching equipment issues now will ensure that when your horse is ready, you are too.  Not to mention this also builds excitement that will make that first ride much more rewarding.

The next thing you want to do is inspect your horse trailer.  Whether you do this yourself or have a professional conduct an inspection, be sure to check the following: brakes, bearings, tires, wiring, lights and floor condition.  If you discover anything that needs amended, contact Phoenix Coach Works and schedule a horse trailer repair appointment to discuss your concern.

While you’re at it, you may choose to customize your trailer to include a cabin, tack-room, additional stalls or simply modernize your outdated equipment.  Doing so will further ensure that no unexpected snags keep you from doing what you love.

Now it’s on to the horse.  Check your horses’ hooves and schedule to have them trimmed and possibly shod depending on anticipated riding conditions and intensity.  Update your paperwork, and if necessary, have your horses wormed and vaccinated.

Depending on your horse’s living conditions and diet throughout the winter, they may be overweight or lack energy.  On the contrary, it is not uncommon for a horse coming out in spring to exhibit a playfulness that may lead to injury if the rider/trainer doesn’t adjust appropriately and regain the animal’s focus.

From here, begin your spring tune-up.  Begin with short, slow rides and increase duration and intensity as your horse regains stamina.  It will likely take upwards of 90 days to fully reinstate your animals back to optimum performance.  But it will be a bonding experience.

Once you have completed spring tuning, it is time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Your horses will be able to compete and show well because of your commitment.  They will also be in their prime as they team with the hounds to embark on a fox hunt.

Whatever your equine attraction may be, the relationship between man and horse is one to be cherished.  Treat your friends with the respect they deserve.  Transporting large animals can be a cumbersome task, so when considering your next carriage, be sure to contact us at Phoenix Coach Works where we offer a full line of  4 horse, 6 horse, 8 horse, and 9 horse van bodies as well as a 15 horse trailer for commercial carriers hauling horses interstate. And don’t forget about our new 2 horse-van built on a Mercedes Chassis.

Remember, from custom built horse vans to trailer repairs and modifications…if you can dream it, chances are we can build it.