To conclude this past month’s segment on farm equipment, I want to emphasize the importance of maintaining your truck, trailer, or tractor to prolong its lifespan and value. A quality piece of equipment kept in good working condition should last and last – the money you spend on maintenance and upkeep is a fraction of what it would cost to fix major repairs or purchase a new machine....
A good truck and trailer are “musts” for the horse owner that does his or her own hauling and horse care. Weigh all the pros and cons of investing in a powerful tow vehicle or new trailer, however, before taking the plunge. How often would you use it? Can you trailer share with a friend or neighbor? Will owning and maintaining a truck or trailer outweigh your yearly shipping and hauling costs?...
I’ll be honest, the topic of tractors and farm equipment is not one I’m particularly versed in. One resource I found quite educational, however, was Cherry Hill’s book Equipping Your Horse Farm. Hill grouped tractors into four categories according to size and purpose: Lawn and garden, compact, utility, and farm....
In today's world we are constantly reminded to be ecofriendly, to live “green” - so why not apply that mindset to horse ownership? You will be doing a favor to both the environment and your wallet. I'm not just talking about recycling plastic bottles and aluminum cans, but reusing your old horse stuff, household items you would otherwise throw away, and dollar store goods you may not have thought would have an equestrian use....
Although it may come as a no-brainer to most horse owners, the diligent care of your tack and equipment will result in a longer-lasting product and less money out of your pocket spent on replacements. Give your tack a two-minute once-over after every use, even if...