Re: RC: Newbie tack questions :)

[flemmerl@rcbhsc.wvu.edu (Flemmer, Linda)]

Hope Ross wrote:
> 
> I am eyeing one of those nylon halter/bridle combos
> -- they look like halters with detatchable bits.  Does anyone use
> these?  Anyone got any comments for or against it?

We've used it in the past, but switched to Biothane.  Biothane was
easier to clean, didn't absorb sweat and sag, and it didn't stretch
out.  It also held its color better than nylon over years of use.

>I am also eyeing a nylon breast collar with the fleece
> lining on it.

We used those in the past, too.  Best brand that we found was from
Toklat.  Second runner up was Tuffy.  Unfortunately, we found that the
fleece absorbed sweat, water from sponging, etc. and got heavy and
sagged.  We switched to biothane breast collars, too.

  > On the subject of first aid kits -- do you pack these items into a
> saddle bag for the ride?  How many pack cell phones with them?  And
> does anyone tie-up the tail, or do you leave it free, or does it
> depend on conditions?

I carry the first aid & water on ME - if the horse dumps me & leaves, I
have my emergency basics!  I sometimes carry a cell phone if I plan to
ride alone ad there's nobody home to worry if I don't show up on time. 
You should have seen Rocket the first time he heard it ring, though!  I
leave the tail down and have never had any problems.  I do braid up the
mane in hot weather to make it easier to cool & sponge.

Linda Flemmer


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