Calmers for horse shows

[BlackIrishBeauty]

Hi,

I was wondering what calmers people recommend to take the edge of a very tense horse at shows so that I can get her out and seeing things without her panicking?

 

[lauragreen85]

I commented on another post there recommending ponease calmer. ( Im in noway connected to the company ) ive found a massive difference this year using it. We give it before each ride and travel

 

[Barklands]

Magnesium will sometimes work but only if the horse is deficient. Calmer’s containing L-Tryptophan such as topspec calmer (also includes magnesium) can be effective but again depends on the horse. Really I don’t think there is really a magic solution other than getting them out, letting them having a walk around/lunge then boxing up and going home and building from there! Can you take the horse out to a quiet indoor arena so they get used to going out and gradually build to busier, bigger atmospheres?

Valerian is another option but isn’t competition legal so a no no if you compete affiliated. James Hart equo-calm is the best one I’ve used.

Another thing you could consider is ear plugs, can stop them from feeling so overwhelmed by a sensory overload but only if your horse will tolerate them.

 

[Pinkvboots]

I used to use oxy shot years ago not sure if it's still a thing also used ear buds and lunging before you get on.

I have found getting to a show very early and walking the horse around take plenty of hay and just let them take in the surroundings can help.

 

[SpotsandBays]

NAF Magic Calmer shots seem to take the edge off abit. I’ve also tried the nettex calmer tubes and they work about the same

 

[adamntitch]

Have seen people using calming cookies altho looks like a gimmick to me I think the few suggestions above would be better you don't want to have to give a calmer everytime you want to go somewhere getting them out and about inhand to some shows for a look would be my advice if the shows allow

 

[SpotsandBays]

Have seen people using calming cookies altho looks like a gimmick to me I think the few suggestions above would be better you don't want to have to give a calmer everytime you want to go somewhere getting them out and about inhand to some shows for a look would be my advice if the shows allow

I’ve tried the cookies before and whilst they made a little difference at home (more concentration), they did absolutely F all when I used them out and about

 

[BMA2]

I think the calming cookies take the edge off mine...2 the night before. 1 when I get there and 1 before I load up

 

[BMA2]

Although a belly full of grass and fart this time of year takes the edge off too

 

[Barklands]

I bought calming cookies to try and am almost certain they were packed with molasses so I prompted vetoed them…