Grooming to horse show standards

Horse shows and other equestrian events are not just about ribbons, rosettes and trophies; they take time, preparation and training.

You may have perfected your horse riding skills and got yourself some fine Dogwood riding boots and horse tack, but before you leap into the saddle some quality time with your horse is essential.

If you want to enter a horse show, whether taking part locally, regionally or nationally your horse must look and feel fantastic. Dogwood's horse grooming kit is the first step to achieving a clean horse with a healthy coat and shiny mane that feels proud to stand up and be judged.

Here is Dogwood's guide to horse grooming for horse show preparation:

Grooming your horse's body

• Brushing - use a Dogwood body brush, or dandy brush for more sensitive parts of the horse, to remover dirt, dust and grease from your horse's coat. Use the metal curry comb regularly while grooming to remove dust and dirt from the body brush.
• Strapping - use a strapping pad, starting at the neck and then work over the rest of the body. Stimulate each group of muscles by thumping them gently, then smoothing the strapping pad across in a consistent thump and slide motion. You may find it easier to alternate between your left and right hand as it is quite hard work. The end result will be lovely glossy horse.
• Wiping down - after strapping your horse run a slightly damp cloth over its entire coat. Use cotton wool or a sponge and water to clean around the eyes, nose and dock. Use a fresh piece of cotton wool for each area and thoroughly wash the sponge after use.
• Feathers - when clean trim your horse's feathers (the hairy part on the legs) with scissors or a comb. Take your time and be very cautious because horses can move suddenly.
• Finishing touches - trim the hairs on your horse's chin and mane just behind the ears to allow the bridle to sit more evenly.

Grooming your horse's tail

• Brushing - rinse the bottom of the tail while strapping over, tease the tangles out with your fingers or a wide toothed comb then brush thoroughly everyday for a gleaming, healthy tail.
• Trimming - trim while wet and then squeeze and give it a quick swish round to remove the excess moisture, now dry with an old towel.

Grooming your horse's mane

• Brushing and pulling - use a mane comb or body brush on the mane every day. If the mane is thick or long you may have to pull it while you brush.
• Trimming - Dogwood advise using a trimming comb on clean hair rather than scissors unless you are an experienced hairdresser, as this can be tricky.

Grooming your horse's hooves

• Cleaning - use hoof pickers and scrappers to remove dirt and stones from under and around the hooves.
• Brushing - a good brush with a Dogwood hoof brush will remove any stubborn dirt and mud.
• Oiling - Oil the hooves inside and out daily to keep them looking healthy, this is also a great opportunity to check the condition of your horse's shoes.
  

Don't forget to make sure you're looking your best too!

For more Horsecare advice, go to www.dogwoodlondon.co.uk