How to Reduce Stress Before, During, and After Your Horse’s Performance

April 28, 2021

By Jennie eilerts

Whether it’s a barrel race, show ring, endurance ride, or weekend trail challenge, performance takes a toll — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally for your horse.

 

While we often focus on the big day, real success comes from supporting your horse before, during, and after the event. By being intentional through each phase, you can help your horse stay balanced, recover faster, and give their best effort with confidence.

 

Let’s break it down.

🟨 Before the Event: Build Calm and Confidence

Preparation is everything. What you do in the days and hours leading up to a performance sets the tone for your horse’s experience — and their ability to handle stress.

 

Here’s how to help them start strong:

  • Stick to your routine. Horses thrive on consistency. Keep feeding times, turnout, and handling as close to normal as possible in the days before.
  • Train, then rest. Avoid over-conditioning too close to the event. Give them time to recover so they arrive fresh, not fried.
  • Support their gut. Stress can trigger acid buildup and digestive upset. A supplement like Zesterra® helps neutralize excess acid and promote calm from the inside out.
  • Travel wisely. If you’re trailering, plan extra time for breaks and hydration. Some horses experience anxiety just loading up — pre-event support can help.
  • Create calm moments. Keep pre-show energy low-key. Your demeanor affects theirs — slow down, breathe deep, and give them confidence through your presence.
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Watch for sensory overload. Give your horse breaks away from crowds and noise. A quiet spot to regroup can make a world of difference.

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🟨 During the Event: Stay Grounded in the Chaos

Even the most seasoned horses can feel the pressure at an event. New environments, loud noises, unfamiliar routines — it’s a lot. Your job? Be their anchor.

 

Here’s how to support your horse in the middle of the action:

  • Keep things familiar. Use the same tack, gear, and grooming routine you use at home whenever possible.
  • Watch for sensory overload. Give your horse breaks away from crowds and noise. A quiet spot to regroup can make a world of difference.
  • Feed and water with care. Don’t make sudden feed changes just because others are. Offer hay and clean water throughout the day to keep digestion and hydration steady.
  • Time your support. Giving Zesterra® shortly before a class or performance can help take the edge off without dulling focus.
  • Keep yourself calm. They feel what you feel. Show up grounded and calm, and they’re more likely to stay that way too.

🟨 After the Event: Support Recovery Inside and Out

When the dust settles and the adrenaline fades, your horse needs time — and your support — to come back into balance. This phase is often overlooked, but it’s where real health is either rebuilt or delayed.

 

Here’s how to help them recover well:

  • Prioritize rest. Give your horse a quiet space to relax. Avoid jumping back into training or heavy work the next day if it’s not necessary.
  • Rehydrate and refuel. Stress can reduce appetite and water intake. Offer soaked hay, fresh water, and a familiar feed to gently re-engage the gut.
  • Watch for subtle signs. Post-performance ulcers, irritability, or fatigue might not show up right away. Keep an eye out for behavior or appetite changes.
  • Re-balance the gut. Use Zesterra® post-event to help neutralize excess acid and promote a healthy digestive recovery — especially if your horse is prone to stress or travel-related upset.
  • Ease them back in. When you do return to training, ease back gradually. Give their muscles, mind, and microbiome time to stabilize.
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