March is one of the most beautiful months in the Phoenix East Valley. In areas like Gilbert, Queen Creek, Mesa, Apache Junction, and San Tan Valley, cooler mornings and warm afternoons create ideal riding conditions.

With spring events and trail rides picking up, it’s important to ensure your horse is physically ready for increased activity.

Even though East Valley horses remain active year-round, many experience lighter workloads during January and February. Jumping back into intense riding too quickly can lead to soreness or injury. Start with gradual conditioning — light arena work, walking sets, and controlled trot sessions before increasing duration or intensity.

Hoof care should be a priority. Desert footing in the East Phoenix Valley can be hard and unforgiving. March is a great time to reassess farrier schedules, check for cracks or imbalance, and ensure hooves are prepared for spring trail riding in Mesa or Apache Junction.

Spring is also ideal for scheduling veterinary wellness exams. Dental checks, body condition scoring, and soundness evaluations can catch minor issues before they become major setbacks. Senior horses especially benefit from proactive joint assessments as activity increases.

Nutrition may need small adjustments as workload rises. Review forage quality and monitor weight to maintain balanced energy without overfeeding.

For aging horses, spring activity can sometimes reveal discomfort or fatigue that wasn’t obvious during quieter months. Observing these subtle changes early allows for thoughtful decision-making.

The Last Ride AZ proudly serves horse owners across the Phoenix East Valley, offering compassionate, local support whenever it’s needed.

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