Do I need my own horse to show? What do I wear?

We take our lesson horses to the local open shows. Open shows typically have beginner and experienced divisions. To show, you will need the appropriate riding pants, boots, shirt, and helmet or hat. A blazer may also be required.

If I do not own a trailer, how do I get to a show?

Coggins Creek Stables has several different sized trailers that we use to transport horses to shows. A small fee is charged for this service.

What vaccines will my horse need?

All horses must have the following vaccines every year: Rabies, West Nile, E&W Encephalomyelitis, Tetanus, and Coggins Test. Other vaccinations are optional. If your horse has not had these vaccinations within one year prior to boarding with us, they must be vaccinated and wait 10 to 14 days before boarding. Many of our boarders vaccinate for Flu, EWE, tetanus and West Nile twice yearly.

When is board due?

Board is due by the 1st of each month. Payments made after the 5th day of the month will incur a $25 late fee.

Is it better to take private lessons or group lessons?

There are benefits to private lessons, and benefits to group lessons. In private lessons, the student receives intense individual attention and will progress more rapidly in many areas. Beginning students must receive private instruction before joining a group lesson.

Group lessons are beneficial, especially if the rider plans to show. because the rider must be able to manuever the horse around other riders and control the horse in a group. Student riders also learn by watching other riders. Riders who are interested in showing need to ride in a group as that is what they'll do in the show ring.

Once a rider has been given the approval to join a group lesson, the ideal schedule typically includes one private lesson and one group lesson per week.

Why should I consider riding in horse shows?

Showing is a vehicle for building self-esteem and self-confidence! Riding in shows gives students goals to work toward. When a show is coming up, riders tend to focus much better in their lessons and work harder. At Coggin Creek, showing is not about winning blue ribbons -- it is about working toward your personal best; learning to win graciously; learning to cheer for your teammates; learning to come back from defeat; learning to push yourself; achieving a working relationship with the horse; conquering fears, and much, much more. Students who choose to show learn that hard work pays off, especially when doing something they love! !