6 Pony Club Grooming Secrets
Okay, by “secrets” I actually mean “information that is easily found in a Pony Club handbook.”
Tomayto, tomahto. These tips are sure to give your horse that extra special shine before the next time he decides to roll in the mud.
Use a shedding blade to clean brushes. This is a great trick, especially if your horse is shedding, or has a lot of dust and dirt trapped under the hair. If your brush is clean you will avoid just redistributing the dirt all over your horse.
Label two sponges: one for for ‘face’ and one for ‘dock.’ This one is often overlooked, but think about it. It’s super gross to use the same sponge on your horse’s butt as on his nose and eyes, and it can spread bacteria!
Do a more extensive grooming after exercise. You should always groom before riding too, but if your horse needs a little extra grooming TLC, it’s better to do it when his skin is warm. It’s also best to pull mane after riding for the same reason—warm skin means more open pores.
Brush from the bottom up. Avoid breaking mane or tail hairs by brushing from the end of the hair first and working up to the root. You can also detangle knots with your fingers…it takes longer, but if you show often your horse’s mane and tail will appreciate it!
Skin problems? Try vinegar. A solution of 1 part white vinegar to 5 parts water can help to restore the skin’s natural pH level.
Give your dirty horse the spa treatment. ‘Hot-toweling’ your horse is a great way to clean the face and areas that get especially dirty. Get a bucket of STEAMING hot water, and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Dip part of a towel into the water, then wring it out completely. Rub first with the wet part of the towel, then follow up with the dry part of the towel. Repeat.
Sources for this article: USPC Manual of Horsemanship: Basics for Beginners, USPC Manual of Horsemanship: Intermediate Horsemanship, USPC Manual of Horsemanship: Advanced Horsemanship