A Horse Like Model

Monday, January 21, 2008

Grooming Your Horse

A Grooming Session for Model

Grooming is an essential task in caring for your horse. It can be be a special time for bonding between the two of you. If you are new to grooming, work with someone who can to explain the different techniques that will ensure a comfortable experience for your horse, and a safe outcome for you. A grown horse weights in excess of 1,000, pounds; there are safeguards you must adhere to for your protection.

Grooming provides opportunity to examine your horse for cuts, bruises, and other injuries. Over time, you will be able to recognize subtle changes on your horse’s body and identify any new injuries, infections or skin irritations. Regular grooming not only beautifies your horse’s coat, it releases the natural oils that are necessary for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Be careful around the sensitive areas of the horse’s body: the face, sides, stomach, legs and frog of the hoof. As you groom your horse, gently stroke him as you move from one part of his body to another. Avoid any sudden moves that can alarm or startle your horse, you want to be sure that he is aware of you at all times.

Identify an open area where you can groom your horse, one that is free from distractions. The location should have a rail where you can tie and safety secure your horse. Make sure that there is enough room so you can walk behind your horse, at a safe distance, to avoid the possibility of being kicked.

The Grooming Kit
There are a number of items that should be part of your grooming kit. The basic items you need to clean the hooves, coat, face, mane and tail of your horse include:

• Curry Comb
• Hoof pick
• Brushes: stiff brush and finishing brush
• Mane and tail comb and/or brushes
• Sponges
• Coat conditioner
• Fly Spray and insect repellent
• Hoof ointment, if recommended by your farrier
• Grooming mitt
• Large bucket, can be used for storage of grooming items.

Cleaning the Hooves
The hooves of the horse are cleaned with a hoof pick. Gently run your hand down the leg of your horse and give it a squeeze to lift the hoof. Begin cleaning at the heel of the hoof and move toward the toe picking out any mud, rocks and other debris. The most sensitive part of the horse’s hoof is “V-shaped” pad, known as the frog. Avoid this area while picking.

Check horse’s shoes to make sure none are loose. Inspect the hooves closely for signs of thrush. Thrust appears in the deep crevices of the frog and is identified by a puss-like discharge with a strong foul order. Work with your farrier for preventive measures and treatment. Your farrier may also recommend the use of ointment for your horse’s hooves. Apply ointment after cleaning to keep hooves from becoming dry.

Cleaning Your Horse’s Coat
One technique to systematically clean your horse’s coat is to move from top to bottom; go from front to back; start on its left side and end on its right side. Start with the curry comb. Use small circular motion while applying pressure to loosen dirt and other debris embedded in the horse’s coat. Beginning on the horse’s right side, brush from the top of the neck and down the chest. Next brush the shoulder, going along the back, next the stomach. Brush the rump and the upper part of the back leg. Check the leg for swelling. Repeat this process on the right side.

A stiff brush is used in the next step to remove any dirt loosened by the curry comb. Starting on the left side, brush in the direction of hair growth using an upward flicking motion to keep dirt from falling back into the coat. Use the same procedure that you used with the curry comb. Remember to periodically pat your horse to keep him aware of your presence. Do the same on the right side.

A finishing brush is used to remove any remaining dirt. Long sweeping strokes are made with the brush that leaves the coat shinny.

Cleaning the Face
With a small damp sponge, clean around your horse’s face, eyes and ears. Check the eyes for drainage, redness or swelling. You can also use the finishing brush to brush the face.

Brushing the Mane and Tail
If needed, use a detangler when brushing the mane, forelock and tail. You want to avoid ripping out hair as you brush. When brushing the tail, stand to the side of the horse and hold the tail in your direction. Divide the tail into small sections and brush the ends before brushing the length of the tail.

Applying Conditioner and Insect Repellent
Complete the grooming process by spraying coat conditioner on your horse, follow with insect repellent. This is an extra measurement to ensure a healthy coat for your horse. You want to avoid discomfort for you horse by reducing insect bites that can cause loss of hair or skin infection.

Reward your horse when grooming is completed. Give him a small treat to enhance his enjoyment of being with you.