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May 11, 2017
April 05, 2017
How often do you inspect your tack? I will be the first to admit, I’m not very good at cleaning my schooling tack, so I’m clearly not very good at inspecting it with a fine-tooth comb. I (might) get to it once a week. There are others who are much better, and clean after every ride – and I’m talking soap and conditioner! For my once a week regimen, I’m usually running late, so I grab a damp towel and do a quick once-over to get off the first layer of dirt and grime.
BUT, I know how important it is. We spend a lot of money on leather strap goods – even schooling tack. So it goes without saying, we need to do a better job of caring for it.
Case in point – last weekend, as I was prepping for a horse show, I removed the stirrups from my saddle to give it a good cleaning. My good, name brand, stirrup leathers have worn through the first layer of leather in one spot, and the nylon inner-layer is showing. Not good.
I move on to scrubbing my irons. They were looking pretty dull, and needed a good shine. As I am standing at the sink scrubbing away, I pushed down on my flex stirrup to get off a mud spot, when suddenly the rubber flex joint disintegrates right in front of my eyes!
Now, I’ve been riding in these stirrups for about 10 years, and yes, rubber tends to dry-rot. But could you imagine if this critical piece of tack broke when I was going over a jump?!
You might be saying – you shouldn’t ride in the flex stirrups (so many pros/cons) but that’s neither here nor there… My point is that I should have caught this earlier. I should have known that my stirrups were on their last leg. It shouldn’t have happened the day before I left for a horse show, which left me scrambling to run out and buy a pair.
It’s time to spring clean. INSPECT those bridles. INSPECT those saddles. Don’t just do a wipe down and assume everything is OK. Check the stitching, the keepers, the buckles. If you wouldn’t feel comfortable walking into the show ring with it, it’s time to invest in a new item or get it repaired.
Give your strap goods a good soak in oil. We tend to soap or condition, but much like our own skin, the winter weather can dry out your leather. Spring is the perfect time to give a soak and put back the moisture and suppleness that has been lost.
Ironically, after my stirrup/leather incident, this video popped up in my Facebook newsfeed from Crown Sport Horses -
Could you imagine losing BOTH stirrups on cross country? Props to her, but I am willing to bet there is a groom out there who no longer has as job since they forgot to inspect a very important piece of tack…
November 29, 2016
Looking for that perfect gift to give? Looking for the top trends and items to add to YOUR holiday wish list? Check out The Carousel Horse's 2016 Equestrian Holiday Gift Guide - ideas courtesy of those who know our products best, our employees!
Nicki Thoma - Accounting
Favorite stocking stuffers:
EquiFUSE Gleam - Who doesn't love a shiny mane and tail? Your horse would really appreciate it! All of the EquiFUSE products make wonderful stocking stuffers!
Horze Happy Face Brush - This brush is perfect for sensitive areas of your horse’s face, ears, and neck. Attractive print makes a statement in any grooming tote. Part of the Happy Horze collection.
Uncle Jimmy’s Big Licky - A delicious horse treat created to give your horse the same fun, entertaining value as Uncle Jimmy’s Hangin’ Balls, but with less mess and stickiness.
Favorite gifts to give:
Noble Outfitters Wine Down Corkscrew - Noble Outfitters has put a new twist on the old hoof pick - a corkscrew! A great gift for your favorite horse person and fellow wine-o!
Noble Outfitters On the Bit Bracelet - An adjustable bracelet highlighting a beautifully crafted snaffle bit on the front. The padding detail comes in four different combinations to wear for any occasion - from street to stable!
Ariat Ring Backpack - This bag is the jack-of-all-trades! Helmet sling, crop holder, laptop/tablet sleeve, cell phone access and charger pockets, insulated bottle pocket, hot/cold pack, spur ring, organizer pocket panels and wet/dirty clothes pocket! Any horse person will LOVE this!
Favorites for YOUR wishlist:
HKM Roma Loop Scarf - The PERFECT fashion scarf, pairs with just about any outfit! Super soft and comfy!
Ariat Arrow Graphic Tee - I LOVE this tee! And you will too. A great, trendy jersey tee to wear just about anywhere!
Beth Bolin - Merchandising
Favorites for YOUR wishlist:
OneK Helmets - I am a huge fan of the ONE K helmets and Carousel has a great selection to choose from. The helmets are lightweight, have a low profile that looks great on everyone and a style for every discipline of riding. Whatever your style, be it bling or a little more reserved ONE K has the perfect option for every rider
Tredstep Boots - I have difficulty finding a tall boot that fits properly...until I tried Tredstep. The boots fit perfectly, broke in beautifully after only a few days and have held up through lots of time in the saddle. A nicely priced boot with a great fit!
Holly Smail - Online Product Manager
Favorite stocking stuffers:
German Horse Muffins - Don't forget about your favorite pony or horse during the holidays! The sweet, chewy muffins are a mix of sweet feed and molasses with added nutrients. These are our best selling treat, and they are all natural and made in the USA.
Favorites for YOUR wishlist:
Ovation Alistair Boot - These boots are stylish and useful for everything from the barn to shopping. The lace up the sides is great for people who need a wider calf size as they will open up to give an inch or two more space. The mix of black and brown leather is perfect for matching all colors. As a bonus, they are fully waterproof!
Joules Warmheart Quilted Feather Down Jacket - I love the deep, vibrant teal color with the pop of gold zippers and buttons on this coat. The photos just don't do it justice. It is lightweight enough for a nice fall day, but the down/feather fill will keep you warm for a colder winter day!
Ariat REAL Riding Jeans – Featuring the Skinny Whipstich - Skinny jeans are wonderful for winter when you are wearing boots to stomp through the snow. No more having to fold and shove your bootcut jeans into your boots! With Ariat being a riding and a fashion company, these jeans are perfect for riding or for wearing out to dinner. They fit like designer jeans, and you can't beat the price for nice denim. Plus, they have that perfect amount of stretch without stretching out!
Renee Stearns - Customer Service
Favorite stocking stuffers:
Gift Horse Candles - The "barn" themed scented candles remind every equestrian of their favorite places; from the trails, to the fields, to the hay loft.
Favorite gifts to give:
Custom Engraving - An engraved Perri's Leather bracelet with yours or your horse's name on it because it's personal and can be worn with just about any outfit. (in store only). Other engraving options are available online.
Favorites for YOUR wishlist:
Paul & Lydia Wallet - I like to replace my wallet every few years, this one is so cute and has so many slots for credit cards, gift cards, and rewards cards. I love the design and feel of the outer material of the wallet. Paul and Lydia makes items that coordinate, so be sure to check out their other items too!
Kim Sasse - Owner
Favorite stocking stuffers:
Willie Bakery’s line of Winter / Seasonal Treats - New seasonal treats just in from Willie Bakery, such as Frosty Biscotti, SnowCream Muffins, and Horseshoe Cookies to fill the stockings at the barn!
Favorite gifts to give:
Old World Christmas Ornaments – They are lovely, glittering pieces of art to hang on your tree and a treasured keepsake for years to come.
Ogilvy Baby Pad - Its unique design means it stays where it needs to without rubbing, is protected with stain resistance and is anti-bacterial / anti fungal on the inside. Plus, dries quickly after use and wicks moisture away from your horse’s back.. Super fun to play with all the color combinations available, but Carousel has tons of in-stock options ready to ship immediately.
Favorites for YOUR wishlist:
Noble Outfitters Element Cowl – The perfect shirt for all occasions; casual Fridays at work with a pair of jeans and boots, or with your favorite tights for a comfy Sunday at home.
Kerrits Horseplay Vest - Not just your basic black vest, this vest is quilted with a chevron and horse stitching to give it lovely detail. It’s slim, flattering fit won’t add bulk, just warmth and style. Perfect for stable to street!
November 01, 2016
As we head into November, we approach our first anniversary as a brick and mortar! While we have been an online store for many years, this was certainly a new, exciting venture for us!
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers, near and far, for your support of our small business. We are growing, and it is thanks to you!
This year, we’ve tried some new things!
We have brought on new brands and vendors, meeting the requests and growing needs of our customers. We would like to also take this opportunity to thank many of our reps, for being so responsive and helpful! Remember, if you don’t see a specific product in-store or on the website, but we carry the brand, we can likely get it for you!
As we look ahead to 2017, we hope to bring you more great shopping and equestrian experiences. Because, like you, we are riders, owners and horse lovers and understand the need for quality products at affordable prices.
Join us November 10-12, at the store for our Customer Appreciation/Anniversary Celebration Event!
October 19, 2016
Fall is here – our favorite! And floral prints have made their way from summer into some of our favorite fall pieces! From breeches to show shirts, boots and more, work florals into your fall #ROOTD. Check out some of our favorites:
RJ Classics has a variety of show shirts with floral accents! Have a little fun in the show ring!
Joules' fall and winter collection adds florals to coats, scarves, boots and sweatshirts. Shop their full collection to see more!
Ariat never fails to impress! Their Women’s’ Blush Top, Dusty Rose X Toe Boot and Kix Poseidon Hoodie all add a touch of winter floral to your wardrobe!
HKM adds subtle details to their Paris Bloom Breeches and Pairs FLower Rubber Boots.
Noble Outfitters Womens' Over The Calf Peddies come in a variety of patterns, but snag yourself up a pair of these - a customer favorite!
Jenny Krauss Handmade Floral Belts are the perfect addition to your style, whether you are at the barn, or heading for a night out.
Mix and match your florals and solids for schooling and show looks that can't be beat! Share your looks on our Facebook page, or tag us using #ShopCHT!
September 07, 2016
By: Maggie Carty
Last November, I moved my horse to my friend’s facility when my trainer moved to Florida. I was in my last semester of college, balancing my riding with school work, interning, working, and competing IHSA. With winter break approaching, I wanted to accomplish something that I had constantly failed at: having a round horse.
This may sound like something I should have taken care of when my horse was younger, and believe me, I wish I would have, but I just didn't get it – the importance of a solid dressage foundation.
Let’s start from the beginning: I grew up riding a lot of different horses, taking them swimming in ponds, running around the woods, and of course jumping anything and everything that was put in front of me, with or without a saddle. I got to the point where I was better bareback over fences than I was with tack. I spent a lot of time in the air and I loved every second of it, but when I went to show on the flat I did not perform well. Nothing says “winner” like getting two blue ribbons over fences and nothing in the hack. My little horse has consistent, smooth gaits but that doesn't matter when her nose is flying around in the air and her ears are pinned with a hollow back.
So, I began my mission. My greatest friend has a dressage background, and agreed to help me. We started incredibly slow, and eventually I got Paige to take TWO steps not evading the bit. Two steps walking slowly became a twenty meter circle in December. Yes, an entire month to walk correctly. Trotting was a whole new ball game, because now Paige had to go faster and keep it all together (while her pilot was learning too). Finally, and surprisingly the easiest, was cantering. We are not perfect, but it is amazing the transformation we have gone through (see photo exhibits A and B). Her jump is so much rounder, her top line is defined, and I won my first hack!
It was one of the most challenging things I have ever done under saddle, but it is so worth it! Now, I don't roll my eyes at the thought of a flat class. I have an interest in dressage at mini trials, and I genuinely enjoy my horse’s more powerful, balanced gaits. Needless to say, without my good friend, her talents and guidance, I would have never reached my goal.
Making time to develop our riding skills can be challenging, especially with work and/or school schedules, but in the end it truly does pay off. All the cold days when I didn't want to ride, I just remembered how much I wanted to better myself and my horse.
As equestrians, we should continuously want to learn and grow! Ride with new trainers. Take advantage of clinicians. Read books. If you feel like you have plateaued, look for a new challenge! And don’t ever think you can’t teach an old horse new tricks!
About our blogger: Maggie Carty is a brand ambassador for The Carousel Horse. Maggie is a recent graduate of Seton Hill University where she competed for, and was the captain of their IHSA team. Maggie actively horse shows in the tri-state area.
July 26, 2016
The Carousel Horse was honored to welcome Attorney Nancy Williams during our seminar, Equine Law: Best Practices for Owners, Buyers, Riders and Stable Managers.
In partnership with James Hannon, their firm, Williams & Hannon, PLLC, represents individuals and businesses in both horse-related transactional and litigation matters. Clients range from stables to stallion syndicates, and have experience in handling boarding contracts, purchase agreements, liability waivers and more.
Nancy's presentation covered a variety of topics, including:
Check out some of the video clips and photos from the presentation here, and be sure to follow us on social media for upcoming seminars and events:
July 06, 2016
EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR - Thursday 7/21 from 5:30 - 8 pm
Equine Law: Best Practices for Owners, Buyers, Riders
and Stable Managers
The Carousel Horse is proud to welcome Attorneys Nancy Williams and Jim Hannon for a seminar discussing the many aspects of Equine Law. Their firm, Williams & Hannon, PLLC represents individuals and businesses in both horse-related transactional and litigation matters. Their clients range from stables to stallion syndicates, and have experience in handling boarding contracts, purchase agreements, liability waivers and more. They will discuss a combination of topics from buying/selling (and vets and pre-purchase exams), to general liability issues and insurance. They welcome any topic requests from attendees in advance of the session.
There is no cost for this event, but space is limited. Refreshments will be served.
RSVP BY EMAIL (sales@carouselhorsetack.c
Note: The presentation will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m.
June 21, 2016
Last month, The Carousel Horse, in partnership with Harmony Equine Veterinary Services, welcomed Dr. Earl Gaughan, DVM of Merck Animal Health, to present an educational seminar on lameness to the local equestrian community.
With a packed house, Dr. Gaughan shared his extensive expertise on identifying and treating lameness issues. His presentation covered:
• Diagnostic review between client and veterinarian
• Elements of a soundness exam
• Flexion testing
• Palpation exam
• Use of technology in identifying issues and treatment
Dr. Gaughan was a wealth of knowledge, and we had a very active audience for the Q&A session. Check out the video clips and photos from the educational event.
The Carousel Horse will be hosting more educational events this year. Be sure to check our Events Calendar for more information – and follow us on social media for details as they become available.
June 13, 2016
By: Maggie Carty
It is officially summertime and the weather is hot! With horse shows on the calendar, I took the past weekend to really clean out my tack trunk, so it isn’t so heavy when I hoist it into the trailer. I like to be prepared for anything, but I don’t think I will need my quarter sheet and a heavy turnout for a summer schooling show!
It’s super important to step into the show ring with clean tack, and clean tack lasts longer! So break out the toothbrushes and saddle soap! Take your bridle completely apart; scrub your bit with a cloth and warm water - the whole nine yards, including oiling it all after it is clean. If you have rubber stirrup pads, scrub those with a toothbrush also; it doesn’t look picture perfect with muddy pads on a clean horse with clean tack! Wash your saddle pads with equine-friendly detergent, and make sure your show clothes are dry-cleaned and ready.
After all your tack is ready to roll – empty out the trunk itself. Spraying or wiping out your box keeps everything from having dust and little bits of hay all over it. Then, grab your brushes and put them in a bucket of hot water with Dawn dish soap or a cap full of bleach. “Stir” it around so the soap can stimulate all the brushes and then set them in the sun to dry. I go as far to have a “show” grooming bag with show sheen, braiding supplies and extra fly spray also.
Lastly, when I’m done packing the trailer I imagine tacking up and getting dressed. Do I have all the pieces that I need? Or will I be showing without a girth tomorrow? I picture my horse ready and expand from there. I also utilize this checklist, to make sure everything is ready to go. Happy showing!
About our blogger: Maggie Carty is a brand ambassador for The Carousel Horse. Maggie is a recent graduate of Seton Hill University where she competed for, and was the captain of their IHSA team. Maggie actively horse shows in the tri-state area.
May 24, 2016
Equestrian chic is a fashion trend that is evergreen. A touch of class and a touch of practical that can actually take you from street to stable.
We rounded up our Carousel Horse Team and some models to put together the following looks that can help you dress up or dress down your riding apparel. Get inspired! Share your street-to-stable looks on our Facebook page!
Get this look:
Ariat Women's East Tank Tunic
Ariat Womens Onyx Pendleton Skinny Jeans
Ariat Santa Cruz Mule
Get this look:
Goode Rider Rain or Shine Jacket
Your favorite jeans!
Get this look:
HKM Golden Gate Fashion Shirt
HKM Womens Silver Stream Jacket
Ariat Real Riding Jean Spitfire
Equestrian Tapestry Carry On Bag
Get this look:
HKM Golden Gate Jersey Competition Coat
Ariat Womens Onyx Pendleton Skinny Jeans
Your favorite heels!
Get this look:
Ariat Womens Copley Tunic
B Vertigo Olivia Luxury Women's Knee Patch Breech
Your favorite heels!
Get this look:
Goode Rider Ideal Show Shirt - Poppy
Tredstep Symphony Rosa Knee Patch Breech
Ariat Adult Saddlery Belt
Ariat Womens Cruiser Slip On Shoes - Cheetah
Get this look:
Kastel Denmark Charlotte Collection Activewear Sun Shirts
HKM Golden Gate Cargo Fullseat Breech
Ariat Adult Saddlery Belt
Ariat Womens Cruiser Slip On Shoes - Palm Brown
Get this look:
Horseware Ireland Elsa Denim Zip Top
Horseware Ireland Fleur Ladies Polo - French Sunshine
Ariat Real Skinny Whipstitch Riding Jean
Ariat Santa Cruz Mule
February 24, 2016
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve seen all the hype around the latest and greatest in equine back protection – the Ogilvy pad! And I’ll be honest, we can’t keep them on the shelves! As soon as a shipment comes in, out the door they go (not complaining), and that doesn’t even include all of the custom pads we order for our customers. So, why all the hype?