Work top to bottom: curry comb to lift dirt, a dandy brush for mud, a body brush for a shine, then face, mane, tail and hooves. Finish with a check for cuts, heat or swelling.
Start with a curry comb
Use a rubber curry comb in circular strokes over the fleshy parts of the body to lift dirt, loose hair and dried sweat to the surface. Avoid bony areas and the legs. This also loosens the skin and boosts circulation, and most horses enjoy it.
Brush off the dirt
Follow with a stiff dandy brush in short flicking strokes to remove the dirt you raised, then a soft body brush in long strokes to lift finer dust and bring out the shine from the natural oils. A quality grooming kit gives you the right brush for each job.
Face, mane and tail
Use a soft brush or cloth on the face, working gently around the eyes and nostrils. Detangle the mane and tail with your fingers first, then a brush, starting at the bottom and working up so you do not rip out hair. A little detangler makes this easier and protects the hairs.
Pick out the hooves
Lift each foot and pick out from heel to toe, cleaning the frog grooves and checking for stones, thrush or heat. This is the most important part for soundness, so never skip it.
Finish with tack and a health check
Wipe over tack after riding to keep it supple and safe, using a good tack cleaner. As you groom, run your hands over the legs and body to feel for heat, swelling or cuts, so small problems are caught early.
