News | 24 February 2025

3 Essential Tips for Stay Away Shows

From Barrier Animal Health

Many winners at 2025 qualifying events are now looking forward to attending Barrier Animal Health Spring Festival! For some people it will be their first stay-away show, so here are 3 essential tips to consider for this experience…

 

1. Forage and bedding

Check requirements of the venue for forage and bedding. If you can, bring your own forage so there is not too much change in your horse’s diet. If your horse is used to being turned out every day, moisten the hay to keep the system flowing in the hind gut. This will help prevent impaction colic and keep them in good shape for the competition.

2. Settling in

Don’t forget your equine’s passport! Also, ensure their vaccinations are in date and meet the organiser and venue requirements. These need to be checked before you leave home. Once you arrive, you will need to get your stable number before unloading your horse. Disinfect the stable and put bedding down.

You can take your horse out of the stable 2 – 3 times per day and graze them in hand on grassy areas. Wear your hat, gloves, safe shoes and make sure you’re away from other horses. This will be a relaxing activity in a new environment and provide moisture content, as well as moving their muscles.

3. Bio-security

The high turnover of horses through stables from all over the country can mean exposing your horse to an increased health risk. Taking a reliable disinfectant with you to spray down the stable before entering is a good way to prevent cross-contamination.

Barrier Animal Health Equine V1 Disinfectant concentrate is a natural and non-toxic virucidal product that destroys viruses, kills bacteria, neutralises odours and reduces ammonia levels. The pleasant fragrance is an added bonus to calm your horse in a new environment. It is also available in a ready-to-use trigger spray 500 ml bottle.

You can spray all contact surfaces, wood and metal before unloading your horse. As it’s totally safe and natural for both humans and equines you can unload with peace of mind.

 

We look forward to seeing you at the Barrier Animal Health Spring Festival. Don’t forget to visit the Barrier stand to take advantage of your 30% Show Discount! For more information on our natural equine products, do explore Barrier’s website.