Although most horses begin training under saddle at three or four years old and start competing a few years later, some foals make their first few turns around the show ring during in-hand classes. These classes focus on young horses’ conformation and movement in hopes of determining under-saddle suitability. A handler typically presents the filly or colt at trot and walk before judges approach to evaluate closer. Most horse shows divide foals according to their breeding and age since different breeds can have different standards. Showing in-hand is a great way to begin working on ground manners and provide exposure to the excitement of horse shows.

Eighteen-month-old “Deja Balou” will be making her in-hand showing debut later this spring at the Devon Horse Show in Pennsylvania. This Oldenburg filly was sired by the son of an Olympic Show Jumping gold medalist, “Balou du Rouet,” while her dam, “Amelia,” is out of successful Canadian show jumper “A Fine Romance.” HorseScents is excited to watch Deja learn and grow, regardless of whether or not she follows in her forbearers’ hoofsteps as an acclaimed jumper.

Deja was successfully weaned from her dam using HorseScents, and she continues to benefit from the soothing scent of lavender. Aromatherapy will be particularly helpful in keeping things calm when Deja arrives at the Devon Horse Show. Since HorseScents is USEF competition approved, Deja can wear her Scent Strap throughout the show. Keep your eyes open for this beautiful filly at Devon and in the years to come!