Vashon Island Equestrian Guide
Essentials for Horse Enthusiasts
A resource for Vashon Island’s horse enthusiasts, offering essential information on horse care, local equestrian services, equipment advice, and community events to help you and your horse thrive
Enhancing Horse Care and Management on Vashon Island
Explore tailored strategies and local insights for maintaining optimal horse health and well-being. With a specific focus on the unique climate and conditions of Vashon Island, it covers everything from nutrition and healthcare to grooming essentials.
Equine Nutrition: Proper nutrition is essential for keeping horses healthy, especially in Vashon Island’s wet and variable climate. Here are key considerations:
Feeding Schedules
Horses thrive on consistency. Most owners feed twice daily, but some may choose to break it into three smaller meals to support digestion and prevent colic.
Types of Feed
The right diet depends on age, workload, and health needs. Grass hay, such as Timothy or Orchard, is commonly used, while alfalfa may be added for horses needing more calories. Senior horses or those with dental issues may require soaked hay pellets or complete feed.
Pasture Grazing
Vashon’s lush pastures can be a great resource, but owners should monitor sugar levels in spring and fall grass to prevent conditions like laminitis.
Supplements
Some horses benefit from additional vitamins, joint supplements, or probiotics, especially those in heavy work or recovering from illness.
Hydration Tips
Horses need constant access to clean water. In colder months, ensure water does not freeze, and consider adding electrolytes to encourage drinking.
Fueling and Protecting Your Horse:
Nutrition & Health Essentials
Routine veterinary care is critical for preventing illness and ensuring longevity. Here’s what local owners should focus on:
Veterinary Check-Ups
Annual wellness exams help catch early signs of illness and ensure vaccines, dental care, and weight management are on track.
Vaccinations
Core vaccines include tetanus, rabies, Eastern/Western encephalitis, and West Nile virus. Additional shots, such as flu/rhino, may be needed for horses that travel or compete.
Deworming
Parasite control should be based on fecal testing rather than routine deworming to prevent resistance. Spring and fall deworming are common practices.
Hoof Care in Wet Conditions
Vashon’s damp climate increases the risk of thrush and abscesses. Regular hoof trimming, dry turnout areas, and hoof conditioners can help maintain hoof health.
Consistent grooming keeps horses comfortable and allows owners to monitor for cuts, skin conditions, or weight changes.
Daily Grooming Routine
Brushing removes dirt and debris, prevents skin irritation, and promotes circulation. Key tools include a curry comb, stiff and soft brushes, and a hoof pick.
Mud and Rain Management
Rain rot and fungal infections can occur in prolonged wet weather. Keeping horses dry with waterproof blankets and using anti-fungal shampoos can help prevent these issues.
Manes, Tails and Shedding
Regular detangling and conditioning help prevent breakage. In spring, horses shed their winter coats, so extra brushing or a shedding blade can speed up the process.
Outfitting Your Horse: Tack, Supplies, and Hay Resources
Having access to the right tack, feed, and essential supplies is key to maintaining your horse’s comfort and well-being. Whether you need high-quality saddles, blankets, feed, or shavings, there are several local and nearby options to shop for both English and Western gear.
Where to Buy Tack and Supplies
For both English and Western riding, there are a few nearby options for tack, basic horse care supplies, and stable essentials:
Vashon Island Horse Supply (On-Island) – A convenient local option for basic tack, grooming tools, supplements, and other equestrian essentials.
Island Lumber & Hardware (On-Island) – Carries stall mats, fencing materials, buckets, and other barn necessities.
Wilco Farm Store (Gig Harbor) – A great resource for shavings, some feed, and basic horse care items.
Tractor Supply Co. (Tacoma) – Offers an extensive selection of feed, stable supplies, and seasonal items at competitive prices.
Hay Suppliers
Hay deliveries to Vashon Island are a key part of keeping local horses well-fed. Many suppliers visit regularly, and the best way to stay informed is by checking announcements in the Vashon Island Equestrians Facebook Group. Here are some trusted hay suppliers who deliver to the area:
Reber Ranch – (253) 630-3330
Corona’s Hay – (360) 620-5039
DAK Hay
Drew Tonseth – (509) 899-4277
Zak Tonseth – (509) 306-9652
Keeping an eye on delivery schedules and planning hay purchases in advance ensures your horses always have a steady supply. Before placing an order, be sure to check with suppliers about hay types, pricing, and delivery fees.