1. Start at Home: Desensitization & Handling
Preparation is key! The more time you spend handling your animal before show day, the more comfortable they’ll be in a busy environment.
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Daily Handling: Spend time walking, brushing, and interacting with your animal to build trust.
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Expose Them to Noise & Movement: Play music, introduce them to loud sounds, and have other people move around them to mimic show conditions.
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Practice Leading & Setting Up: A well-trained animal is a confident animal. Work on leading, stopping, and setting up so they know what to expect in the ring.
2. Keep Their Routine Consistent
Animals thrive on routine. Sudden changes can cause anxiety, so try to keep their schedule as normal as possible.
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Feed at the same times as you would at home.
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Maintain their usual grooming routine.
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Avoid unnecessary last-minute diet changes.
3. Create a Comfortable Show-Day Environment
Your stall or pen area should be a stress-free zone.
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Provide Fresh Water & Feed: Dehydration can cause stress and fatigue. Always have clean water available.
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Use Bedding They’re Used To: Bringing familiar bedding from home can provide comfort and a sense of security.
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Minimize Overcrowding: Too much commotion can overwhelm your animal. Try to keep their space calm and quiet.
4. Manage Your Own Stress
Animals pick up on their handler’s emotions. If you’re nervous, they’ll sense it too.
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Take deep breaths and stay relaxed when handling your animal.
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Focus on positive reinforcement rather than frustration.
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Get a good night’s rest before show day—you’ll perform better, and your animal will respond better to you.
5. Utilize Calming Aids if Needed
If your animal is particularly nervous, there are safe calming aids available.
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Electrolytes & Supplements: Some products help maintain hydration and reduce stress.
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Essential Oils & Sprays: Lavender-based sprays can have a calming effect when used properly.
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Calming Techniques: Gentle scratching in favorite spots or slow, rhythmic brushing can help ease nerves.
6. Arrive Early & Allow Time to Adjust
A rushed animal is a stressed animal. Arriving early gives them time to acclimate to their surroundings.
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Walk them around the showgrounds so they can get used to the sights and sounds.
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Let them stand in the ring (if allowed) before the show to familiarize themselves with the setting.
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Give them time to settle in their stall before major activities begin.
7. Stay Patient & Positive
Every animal reacts differently to show environments. Some adjust quickly, while others take time. If your animal is nervous, be patient. With time and the right preparation, they’ll gain confidence, and so will you!
