Before you can saddle your horse to ride, you need to groom them to make sure all dirt and mud is removed. If the horse isn’t properly groomed prior to saddling it can lead to discomfort or even raw places where the dirt or mud rubs against the horse.
At Flying G, we think it is vital for students to learn to groom and saddle their own horses.
When you arrive at your lesson, you will be assigned the horse you are to ride. Staff will be available to show you how to groom and saddle. Soon, you will be able to do this on your own, but for starters, they are there to help.
You will be shown how to properly use the following items:
1. Curry Comb
The curry comb is a small rubber, oval comb that fits in the palm of your hand. Use this is small, circular motions on the horse’s coat to bring the dirt and dander to the surface.
2. Hard or Dandy Brush
Use the hard brush in flicking motions to brush away all the dirt and dander the curry comb brought up. You want to brush the horse’s coat to make sure they are clean. Brush WITH the hair and not against it. Your goal is to have the horse’s coat smooth and ready for the saddle.
3. Mane and Tail Comb
Use the mane and tail comb to comb out tangles from the horse’s mane and tail. You would use this just like a comb in your own hair! Start at the ends and work your way up the hair to prevent unnecessary pulling.
4. Mud Scraper
Sometimes your horse may have spots of dried mud on them after a rain. The mud scraper is used to gently brush off the dried mud. Use it only on the neck and body of the horse. Do not use it on the legs or face. Those areas are too sensitive for the mud scraper.