Posts Tagged ‘Curry Comb’
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.
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.
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.