DALLAS TWP. — Gina Felker found herself in a lurch when her favorite horse supply shop Spur of the Moment closed last year.
Fueled by the love for her two Quarter horses named Sunny and Jack, Felker reached out to the shop’s former owner Diane Kreller for help to open her own business called The Hitchin’ Post at the same location on Route 309.
“I did it so people can get supplies for their horses,” said Felker, of Harding. “The Back Mountain has a big horse-riding community.”
Kreller guided Felker “through the ins and outs” of the niche business.
In January, Felker hung up her “Open for business” sign and began attracting riders from Tunkhannock, Clark Summit, Hawley and parts of Susquehanna County to her shop located at 3485 Route 309, near Frontier Communications.
Felker will hold a grand opening April 28 to officially reveal her store.
The Hitchin’ Post is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
The next closest store specializing in horse supplies and riding gear is in Hazleton, Felker said, adding some local businesses do have a limited selection of horse supplies.
Felker’s experience in caring for her own horses and appreciation of riding sports is apparent in her inventory.
She carries a variety of merchandise that includes English and Western style bits, bridles, reigns, saddlebags, English riding apparel, which includes pants, chaps, and helmets, as well as horse grooming supplies.
Felker also sells garment, boot, saddle and bridle bags for competition riders.
The Hitchin’ Post also carries a variety of toys and treats to ensure a happy horse.
A sign near the cash register states if customers cannot find an item on the shelves to ask and Felker will order it.
“I am building my inventory around what people need,” she said.
Buying from Felker’s shop has advantages over purchasing items online, she said.
“You can feel the leather and see the quality,” Felker said, noting some leather used in items such as bridles feels rough or brittle. “I carry Weaver leather. I think it feels very soft.”
Felker does not carry new saddles but will take saddles on consignment.
