Help the USEF Prepare for a Better Future

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is an organization that supports riders, horses, coaches and horse enthusiasts throughout the United States. Dedicated to the equestrian riding community, the USEF serves as the governing body for equestrian sports. Since its establishment in 1917, the USEF and has pursued growth and dedication for human and equine athletes.

Another way the USEF is involved in helping and bettering the life of horses is the Disaster Relief Fund. The USEF steps in and helps place horses that have become victims of a national disaster, including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, blizzards and fires. Rod’s became involved in the National Disaster Relief Fund after the unfortunate disaster of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Since then, Rod’s has supported the USEF efforts by matching all donations collected through rods.com, in hopes of preparing for future national disasters.  Find out how to get involved:

https://www.usef.org/_AUAIFrames/DisasterRelief/DisasterRelief.aspx

Get Asthon Shepard’s Look at Rods.com

Ashton Shepard has stolen the hearts of Americans with her authentic country sound. She is a hard working wife and mother, who spends her time running the farm, selling her produce out of the back of her truck, and topping the billboard charts. She still lives on her farm in Alabama, and knows “Where Country Grows”. Get Ashton Shepard’s authentic country look at Rods.com. Shop the Jeans, Boots, Shirt, and more!

35th Anniversary Celebration

Rod’s was established in 1976 and will be celebrating its 35^th anniversary on Friday, June 17^th and Saturday, June 18^th at the Columbus, Ohio location. The anniversary celebration will feature the grand opening of Rod’s Tack Barn and the annual Tent Sale. Bring your entire family to enjoy FREE Food with birthday cake, entertainment, live music, hourly raffles, book signing by Fred Dailey, kids’ activities, in-store promotions and giveaways. We’ll be giving away saddles, boots and collectible items, such as a guitar signed by George Strait, and much more!  Meet many of Rod’s vendors offering one-on-one help including saddle fitting and custom hat fitting by Greeley Hats.  Shop our best deals and steals up to 70% off catalog overstocks at our biggest Tent Sale ever.  Please stop by and join our celebration – we look forward to seeing you!

 

Helpful Tips for Helmet Awareness

Riding a horse can be unpredictable. The horse may become spooked, irritated, or may just be having a bad day and serious consequences can result. Each year over 70,000 riders are taken to the Emergency Room for equestrian related injuries. Of those hospital visits, about 12,000 are diagnosed as head injuries. To minimize the risk of serious injury, be sure your helmet is the proper fit. It is also a good idea to check your helmet yearly for signs of wear. Below are some helpful hints on how to get the perfect fit, and when to replace your helmet.

Making Sure Your Helmet Fits

Equestrian Helmets come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and patterns. Your helmet should be certified for horseback riding, meet your needs and riding style, and have a proper fit. When searching for helmets, start by measuring your head an inch above your eyebrows and above your ears. As you are being fitted for your helmet, wear your hair the way you commonly wear it during riding activities. Your helmet visor should be one inch from your eyebrow, and the helmet should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. The chin strap should be snug, and when you move your head the helmet should mirror the movement; not wobble. A proper fitting helmet becomes less noticeable after a short period of wear. If you are experiencing a headache, your helmet may be too tight.

When is it Time to Replace Your Helmet?

As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your helmet every five to six years. Helmets should be replaced sooner if you see any visible signs of wear and tear. Signs of wear and tear commonly occur on the inside foam. If you see any cracks in the foam, it is usually time to replace it. Sometimes when your helmet is exposed to extreme weather conditions or outdoor elements you will need to replace it. Helmets are important when riding, and haven proven to save lives. Be sure your helmet is in perfect condition and working order.

Fire Safety Tips and Preventions

There are a few things in life more terrifying than an out-of-control fire on your property, especially in your barn. Each year there are an average of 4,500 barn fires, most of which are considered to be preventable. Even though it is impossible to make a barn 100% safe from fires, there are several ways to reduce these risks. Here are some ideas from Rod’s on how to minimize the risk of a barn fire:

 

Hay – Hay is a highly conductive material that is easily set on fire due to its dry, brittle structure. To reduce the risk of starting a fire, keep hay in a separate building from your barn. If you do not have another location to store hay, there are precautions you can take; sweep and scrub down the loft of all loose particles when it is time to refill the loft.

No Smoking – Post several “No Smoking” signs in and around the barn. If you see someone who is smoking around the barn, ask them to leave the property and make sure no cigarette butts were left behind.

Check Wiring – At least once a year you should have an electrician check over the wiring in and around the barn. Faulty wiring can cause electrical fires.

Clear Debris – A seasonal cleaning should be performed to ensure debris is cleared away from the barn. Cobwebs, brush, dead grass, wood shavings in aisle ways and over-full compost piles and straw can be hazardous.

Sprinkler System –A sprinkler system can help control a fire long enough time to relocate your horses. While the initial investment may seem high, check with your insurance agent since the installation may result in a decrease of your premiums.