The All Arounder: Issue #004

Horse Tail Extension - How to Shop and Order

May 2009

Welcome!

The All Arounder is the official monthly newsletter of the Stock Horse Show Source website. Author Lynn Espinoza is the main editor for both the website and this newsletter. With this issue stay up to date with news from the site and horse industry, hot tips for showing and caring for your horse, and "members only" specials!

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The All-Arounder Table Of Contents

Inspiration For The Month

News & Updates

• Keyhole Race - Speed, Accuracy, and Staying in the Lines: http://www.stock-horse-show-source.com/keyhole.html
• Pole Bending - Agile Equine Athletes: http://www.stock-horse-show-source.com/pole-bending.html

Horse Tail Extension - How to Shop and Order

I have seen prices for a tail range from $100-$300 depending on where you shop or order from. Tail extensions are legal on quarter horse, paint, and appaloosa breed circuits.

If you are looking for that first tail extension, this article will help to get you started. We will be looking at where to shop and what information you may need to have on hand to place an order.

Where To Shop
Figuring out where to start when shopping for a horse tail extension can be confusing. You may have a few questions swirling around in your head such as how do I match the right tail color? How much of a tail do I need? Where can I find a tail?

We will be answering a few of those questions to get you on your way to finding the right tail extension for your horse.

One of the biggest questions you may ask in the beginning is where to start your shopping. If you have been to any tack sales or equine events with different vendors, you may have come across some pre-made tails.

Some tack shops or stores offer horse tail extensions for purchase at different sizes, colors and weights. You can also find pre-made tails for sale online both new and used. Keep in mind that a previously made tail may not match your horse's tail color as well as one you custom order.

As mentioned above, you also have the option of custom ordering a tail to match with the size and color of your horse. When looking for someone to customize a tail extension for you, it may be a good idea to ask around for a referral from someone you trust. If you are at a loss for such a source, you can always conduct a search online.

Tail Size
Tail extensions come in sizes measured by weight and length. Typically you will find tails that are 1/2 pound, 3/4 pound, or 1 pound when shopping at most tack shops or vendors. Tail weights or sizes can also be customized to meet your needs.

The length you may need will vary depending on the height of your horse. A taller horse will obviously need a longer tail than a shorter horse.

Measuring
There may be some variation in how to measure your horse for a tail extension from a specific vendor. A common measurement is from the bottom or end of your horse's tail bone to the floor.

Again you may want to confirm how the particular vendor bases their measurements before handing over the money. If you choose to have your tail custom made, the person making your tail should tell you how they would like you to measure to ensure a perfect tail length.

Tail Color
Many stores and custom tail vendors will offer a variety of pre-made tail colors in stock. It is often easier to match shades of black than sorrel or chestnut tails.

Quite often you will have to provide a sample of your horse's tail if you want a closer color match.

Shopping Summary
Above we have covered some basic information of what you need to know when beginning to shop for a tail extension. If you are planning on purchasing a tail off-the-rack, it may be smart to take some measurements of your horse's tail (i.e. bottom of the tail bone to the floor) and possibly a sample or picture of your horse before heading to the store.

Having this information on hand can help the store determine if they have anything in stock to meet your needs.

If you are planning on ordering a custom made tail you have the power of the internet to shop around and price out certain vendors. Don't forget to consult with those that you may know who have ordered tail extensions.

When ordering a tail make sure you contact the person or company who will be making your tail. It is a good idea to call them in order to have questions answered and get exact prices.

You will likely need to send specific information about your horse including a measurement for length. You may also likely need to send a hair sample for color matching along with a picture of your horse's tail.

All this information will help the vendor make a tail that fits your horse perfectly.

No matter where you shop for a tail extension, make sure they have a returns or repair service in case something happens after your tail is shipped to you. Like any other item you buy for your horse, a tail extension can be expensive and you should make sure the person or store you purchase from will honor any guarantees that come with the product.

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