I recently bought a pair of paddock boots for everyday riding. Last weekend I was trimming Trillium's bridle path. I had her tied in a stall were the light was best. While I was working I didn't notice an area where urine had pooled in a hollow and I stepped in it several times. I threw bedding over the area--but my boots had picked up the odor. On the drive home I couldn't help but be aware of the smell of my own boots. Yuck. When I got home I gave them a good cleaning, including spraying the soles with an pet odor remover spray. Urine, sweat and grit is hard on the leather and stitching of boots so cleaning them will help prolong their life. And you may be allowed to keep them indoors rather then on the back step. Read Caring for Your English or Western Riding Boots for tips on keeping your riding boots in good condition.

More About Leather Care

• Repair Stitching in Heavy Leather or Fabric
• Clean Your Leather Saddle Step-by-Step