Grooming - Our First Web Page - Jacquelyn Geyer & Amberleigh Million

GROOMING

Brushing daily helps keep the body of your horse clean, as well as giving their coat a nice shine. An outdoor horse should be groomed less than a stabled horse. The outdoor horse needs to keep the oil in their coat to stay warm and dry. I always begin with a rubber currycomb. I start on the neck in a circular motion. Never use a currycomb on the face, lower legs or the flanks. After I have loosened the dirt and hair, I use a stiff bristled brush. I start at the neck and brush with the growth of the hair. I continue brushing this way from front to back, even their belly. I always make sure I have cleaned the area were the cinch lies to prevent saddle sores. Once I have removed all the loosened dirt and hair, I use a soft brush on the face.

When this is finished I move to the rear of horse. The tail must also be brushed to remove any dirt that may accumulate. When standing behind the horse it is a good idea to stand to one side or the other in case the horse moves unexpectedly. A person should always be ready to move quickly should this happen. When you must move behind a horse you should walk as close as you can, keeping a hand on it at all times. If a horse should kick while you are

walking behind them, you will not be hurt as bad because the horse will not have had time or space to gain full momentum. Otherwise be sure to allow enough space when walking behind a horse so if they do kick you won't be hit. When I have finished brushing the tail I use my soft brush and a comb to groom the mane. It is important to remove any tangles. Then I stand back look my horse and apply any finishing touches. Always be sure to use any grooming equipment gently on your horse. They may be uneasy about this the first few times you do it, but eventually they will love to have it done.

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