All the animals are clipped, the tack is loaded, and the show whites are packed. All of this only means one thing, it’s fair time! While time spent at the fair is known for priceless memories, learning curves, and blue ribbons, showing at the fair can lead to some hard days if you are not careful of your surroundings and environment. Taking a closer look at the following areas will lead to a safer fair experience for parents, kids, and those attending the fair.
Heat
Most fairs are held between June and August, when rising temperatures in almost all areas of the country are inevitable. Adding humidity to the mix only makes matters worse. With long days spent outside at the fair, there can be little time inside to cool yourself down. To combat the heat, have a refillable water bottle and wear light material clothing while outside.
Proper shoes
Wearing footwear that is meant to be around cattle will protect your feet and keep you safe. Remember that boots are a necessity while exhibiting in the showring. I like to wear tennis shoes while walking around the barns because I am on my feet all day while showing cattle.
Cleanliness
Wash your hands frequently and before you consume food at the fair. Being around animals all day, it can be easy to forget how dirty our hands get after dealing with manure, feed, and cattle.
Attendee safety
This is probably the most important area to pay attention to while showing cattle, in my opinion. Be careful when walking cattle in front of the public, as they might not know how to react when the animal walks by. I always tell the group I am approaching that they are gentle animals but can be easily spooked if touched by a stranger.
These tips may be common sense, but it is always good to refresh ourselves on safety measures for a great summer fair. Happy showing!
Elise Regusci grew up on her family's farm in Modesto, Calif. Regusci attends Cal Poly University, majoring in dairy science with an agricultural communication minor. On campus, she is the Los Lecheros Dairy Club Ag Council representative and a member of the Cal Poly dairy judging team. Regusci is the current Brown Swiss Youth Ambassador and is the 2017 Hoard's Dairyman summer editorial intern.