Archive for the ‘Curry Comb’ Category
Horses and the Economy Part 3-Grooming
I have discussed some solutions in previous blogs. Some to do with types of saddles some info to save you money regarding bartering.
There are a number of ways to go about having your horses groomed. I remember as a kid I was the one that was responsible for the grooming, cooling down, feeding and cleaning the stalls. It seems that we have gotten away from the simple things in life that use to give us pleasure. Granted, cleaning the stalls before school was NOT the highlight of my day but it taught me responsibility.
Now is the time to go back to the simpler things in life. Back to the beginning and remember what it is all about. OK enough of that. Now…you do know where your horse grooming tools are right? 
Some ideas that can help you in a tough situation is to:
- Barter your way through periodic grooming that you need done. That is if you do not want to tackle it yourself.
- Get kids involved.
- Ask you local kids group, ymca, or other local center if they would like to have the kids visit your farm for some demonstrations and learn how to work with horses. The grooming can be a part of that visit.
Teach them about all the tools: curry comb (metal or course/fine rubber combs), hoof pick, soft/hard bristle brush, mane and tail comb. You may be surprised at how many kids enjoy working with horses and would not mind coming periodically to help. Who knows you may have a future employee in training.
Give some of your own ideas to help others.
Horses and the Economy Part 2
No one likes to dwell on a down economy and a tight budget, but its lasting impact may turn out to be a positive one. All in all, it’s a great time for horse and dog owners to discover new opportunities.
Everyone has had to make sacrifices for their animals. You also see more and shelters being filled up as Some simply let their animals loose in the streets or ignore them and abandon them altogether.
I have seen many horses being given away as the owners are in a foreclosure status on their homes. It is so sad to see so many displaced animals much less the people who love them.
I’ve heard from veterinarians, breeders, and barn managers but now I want to hear from you. Where have you cut costs? How creative have you gotten? Share some of your tips and tricks by commenting on this blog
Some of the things that I have heard people doing are bartering for services. This eliminates the output of cash and build a better business community. If this is what you choose to do remember not to sell yourself short.
Also the time has come to get back to the basics. Horse grooming for instance can be done by you and save hundreds of dollars per year.
This blog will take a look at a different component of owning a horse and suggest ways you can cut costs and save money. I would like your advice and suggestions from you via the comment section.
I have already written about the pros and cons of synthetic vs traditional western saddles. Check out the blog and give me your thoughts on that subject as well.
How have you dealt with the economy and your animals?
Gift of Adoption
If you read the newspapers or watch the news you have a slight idea of the animal abuse that occurs day in and day out. It is a never ending battle of what the American Humane Society fights daily.
I am taking a hint from the American Humane Society and asking that if you are thinking of adopting a pet for a family member or friend, please remember that it is a huge decision to take on your own. You may have the best of intentions to rescue an animal in need but if the receiver of that gift that does not appreciate the gesture than it is more heartbreaking and confusing for the animal to have to return the adoption center.
The best way to give the gift of adoption is to wrap a dog collar, dog toys or a horse halter in a box and present that as a gift with a card. In the card let them know that you are giving the gift of adoption to them at a time when they can visit a shelter and choose the best pet for them.
Providing a gift in this way is providing happiness for both the animal and the person receiving your gift.
Check out www.americanhumane.org for more information on adoption.
Step Up to Your Horse Tack Box
Tired of walking back and forth to get your tools? I have been in that position. I forget something and I have to keep walking back and forth to the barn to get it. Not fun when you are trying to get something accomplished. Horse supplies are not always in the right place at the right time.
Have you, no matter how hard you try to remember it all, you just seem to accidently leave something important at home when traveling with your horse(s)? I have.
Have you spent a lot of time just looking for all the important things you need to bring with you when you travel with your horse? I have.
I have found the most convenient thing to have, even when I have traveled. It is a step and a storage area in one. Actually it’s called Mounting Steps. It’s great for being able to comb the mane without having to reach up for a long period of time or have the inability to do so. We all know how long it could take to comb a mane or tail.
The steps can come in 2 or 3 step versions. But I absolutely love the 3 step version that has a lockable storage area in the top step. Whether I am traveling or at home it makes it a simple and easy solution to help keep my tools all in one place, when and where I need them. I especially like to keep the horse pick, grooming tools such as the curry comb and brushes. With the lockable top I can keep my supplies safe from others when I do have to travel. That saves me time and money.
I just wanted to give you one of my suggestions. Let me know what you think.
Clean and Picture Perfect Horse!
Please take my Picture
It is vital to keep your horses coat clean not only for the look of the shiny coat, but also for health reasons. Keeping your horse clean can help prevent dangerous diseases from wrecking havoc on your horses coat and skin. There are a few different pieces of grooming equipment that are needed for the proper grooming of your horse. Below is a quick overview of how I always have done.
First I make sure to secure my horse with a halter and lead rope. This is to make sure that it is safe for me and my horse. I also am sure to use a quick release clip in case I need to release the animal quickly.
1. Use a coarse curry comb to begin the process. Brush from front to back, beginning by the horse’s neck and continuing over and down towards the hind. Do this on both sides using circular motions to remove loose hair and bring dirt to remove dirt and debris. Use a fine curry comb to clean and massage sensitive areas.
2. Use a stiff brush to remove all the dirt and debris that were brought to the surface by the curry comb. You don’t have to press hard when using the stiff brush. But do use short quick strokes. Do not use the stiff brush on the face, the inside of the hind legs, and other sensitive body parts of the horse.
3. Use a soft brush for the parts of the body that you did not use the stiff brush on.
4. A sponge or a wet rag can be used to clean the horse’s eyes, ears, and nose.
5. You can use fingers to separate and smooth the hairs in the horse’s mane and tail but the easiest and most efficient way is to use a mane comb. Please take your time when working on the mane and tail as you don’t want to pull or break the hairs.
6. Don’t forget the hooves. Keeping the hooves clean will allow your horse to walk comfortably and will clean out any pebbles, dirt or foreign objects.
Once you are finished your horse should have a clean shiny coat, mane and tail. Beautiful!
There are also a variety of shampoos to use should you want to give your horse a bath. But either way you choose, keeping your horse clean is to help to make sure that no illness can infest your horses’ skin. It also is a way to create a special bond and to be able to recognize any changes to your horses’ body.