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[Susieque]

This is Parts 6, 7 and 8 in a series of articles on basic grooming tips. Start with Part 1 in prior articles in "General Grooming" and work your way up!

The Finishing brush makes your horse's coat sleek and glossy and removes the last traces of dust and dirt. Use long sweeping strokes over the whole body and broad areas of the face.

2005 K. Blocksdorf
 
.A finishing brush will have shorter softer bristles and may be used on your horse's or pony's face if you don’t have a special brush. Gently whisk away dust from the broader areas on your horse’s face, ears and throat. With sweeping strokes whisk away any dust missed by the body brush. The finer bristles help smooth out the body hair and leave your horse looking more finished. Grooming sprays can provide sun protection, and add shine to your horse’s coat but they aren't necessary. If you plan to ride however, be aware that some products may make the hair slippery and could cause your saddle to shift. Try to avoid application to the saddle area.

Gently clean around your horse's or pony's eyes, muzzle and dock area with a clean damp sponge or soft cloth.

2005 K. Blocksdorf
 
.With a damp sponge or soft cloth wipe around the horse’s eyes and muzzle, and clean away any dirt or chaff. Check your horse’s eyes. A bit of tearing at the corner of the eye is not uncommon, but take note of excess tearing, redness, or swelling. Wipe around the dock and tail head. Check ears for lodged seed heads or dirt.

Apply hoof ointment to your horse's or pony's hooves to maintain moisture and prevent cracking if your farrier recommends it.

2005 K. Blocksdorf
 
.Apply hoof ointment to protect and moisturize your horse’s hooves if it is recommended by your farrier. Apply fly spray or sun screen if conditions require.