Whether it is you, your family, or your staff grooming your horse, it is good that everybody has a basic understanding of what it takes to groom and care for your horse correctly. Some products that you use to groom your horse will be specific to your horse, and others can be materials that you already have around the barn. There are necessary grooming steps that should be taken to maintain your horse's health daily, and then there are others that can occur every few weeks. In this guide, we will give you a high-level overview of some of the things you should consider when properly caring for a horse.
Equipment Needed
Although you do not need to run to the store to purchase all of this equipment today, there are several things that you should have on hand to groom your horse correctly. You will need several brushes and combs, including a curry comb, a body brush with stiff bristles, a mane comb, and a fine soft-bristled finishing brush. This may seem like a lot to take care of one horse, but the brushes and combs should last you quite some time if cared for properly.
In addition to the combs and brushes, it is essential to have a hoof pick as well as scissors or clippers. You will also need some horse shampoo and coat enhancers to help when it comes time for a bath.
Hoove Cleaning
We mentioned that it is crucial to have a hoof pick, and that is certainly no understatement. A hoof injury can be detrimental to a horse. The pain that they will be in will make it very difficult for both you and your horse. If you can prevent a hoof injury by using proper cleaning methods, your horse will stay much healthier.
When you use your hoof pick, make sure you remove any visible dirt, manure, or grit that is stuck in the sole of your horse's foot. If you notice any cracks or signs of injury, make sure to take note so that it can be addressed as soon as possible.
Nutrition
Grooming is made all that much easier when your horse has the proper diet. Nutrition plays such a significant role in the coat health of your horse. If you have not recently checked in with your vet on the balance and completeness of your horse's diet, do so today.
Giving Your Horse A Bath
Many people wonder how often they should be bathing their horses. Depending on where you live, the necessity of taking a bath could vary. Generally speaking, you only need to bathe your horse a few times per year. However, if your horse is visibly dirty or they went for a long run, it is fine to bathe them every week. Make sure that you use the proper products so that your horse's coat and skin are not dried out from the bathing.
Racing horses and show horses will likely be bathed and groomed more often than a farm horse, but the products you use to protect and nurture their coat will very likely be the same.
Getting into a routine to groom your horse is very important. You must make sure that all aspects of your horse's health are taken into consideration to help ensure their health and longevity.