January kicks off the major livestock show season in Texas. Whether you are heading to Gillespie, Fort Worth, San Antonio, or a local county fair, preparation is the name of the game. The cold weather adds an extra layer of challenge, making it even more important to have the right gear. A well-stocked show box ensures your animal looks its best and stays healthy, regardless of the temperature.
Success in the ring starts long before you step onto the shavings. It begins in the barn with the right daily care and continues with packing the essentials for the road. This guide covers the must-have supplies to keep your project on track during the winter show season. Before we go any further, if you are looking for essential livestock show supplies or even advice from a real person, we’ve got all the livestock show feeds, supplies and resources you need at Lochte Feed.
1. High-Quality Feed and Supplements
Consistency is key when traveling. Sudden changes in diet can cause digestive upset and affect your animal’s performance.
- Bring Your Own Feed: Pack enough of your animal’s regular feed to last the entire trip, plus a little extra for emergencies.
- Electrolytes and Probiotics: Travel stress and cold water can discourage animals from drinking. Electrolytes help keep them hydrated, while probiotics support gut health during stressful transitions.
- Top Dress Supplements: If you use specific fat or muscle supplements to maintain condition, ensure you have plenty on hand. The extra energy helps them stay warm and hold weight in the cold.
2. Essential Grooming Tools
Presentation is everything. You need tools that can handle winter coats and keep skin healthy in dry, cold air.
- Brushes and Combs: Pack a variety of brushes, from stiff rice root brushes for cleaning mud to soft finishing brushes for adding shine. Don’t forget your scotch combs and fluffer combs for cattle.
- Soap and Conditioners: Winter air dries out skin and hair. Use conditioning shampoos and heavy-duty conditioners to keep hair coats manageable and prevent flaking.
- Blow Dryer: A powerful blower is non-negotiable in January. It is essential for drying animals completely after washing to prevent them from getting chilled. It also helps train the hair and add volume.
3. Winter Livestock Care Gear
Keeping your animal warm and comfortable is vital for maintaining their health and body condition.
- Blankets and Sheets: Bring appropriate blankets for your species. Canvas blankets work well for cattle in extreme cold, while tight-fitting tubes or slinkies are great for goats and lambs to keep them clean and warm.
- Bedding: While shows provide bedding, bringing extra shavings or straw can ensure a deep, dry bed. This insulates your animal from the cold concrete floors found in many show barns.
4. Show Day Touch-Ups
When it is time to enter the ring, you need quick-fix items close at hand.
- Show Halters and Leads: Check your leather goods beforehand. Ensure they are clean, conditioned, and free of cracks. A polished show halter makes a professional impression.
- Shine Products: A light mist of shine spray or oil can make your animal pop under the arena lights.
Your Essential Livestock Show Supplies Headquarters in Fredericksburg
Don’t let the winter weather catch you off guard. Having the right livestock show supplies makes all the difference between a stressful trip and a successful one.
Get everything you need for the winner’s circle at Lochte Feed. Located in Fredericksburg, Texas, we carry a full line of premium show feeds, supplements, grooming products, and livestock care essentials. Our knowledgeable team understands the local show circuit and can help you find exactly what you need. Stop by Lochte Feed Fredericksburg today to stock your show box!