Before saddling a horse, there is one moment that is fundamental to us: grooming. It may seem like an obvious task, but it must be done carefully, because it helps prepare the horse for the day, ensures its well-being, and gives you the opportunity to get to know it a little better.
During our treks, each participant takes care of their own horse, which is why it is important to know how to do it properly and independently.
Why grooming the horse is important
Grooming is first and foremost used to remove dirt, dust, and mud that could cause discomfort when the horse is saddled. A saddle pad or saddle placed over dirt or small encrustations can cause rubbing during many hours of riding.
Brushing the horse is also a valuable opportunity to observe it closely, check the condition of its skin, make sure there are no small wounds or swellings, and understand how it reacts to our touch.
The tools we use
For daily grooming, only a few tools are needed. We use two types of brushes, one with softer bristles and one with stiffer bristles, a metal curry comb to be used gently to remove more stubborn encrustations, and a hoof pick for cleaning the hooves.
We can also use a dedicated brush for the mane and tail, especially when the hair is particularly tangled.
Once grooming is complete, the equipment must also be put away. Before storing the brushes, remember to remove any accumulated hair and dirt, and leave everything in order for the next rider.
How we brush our horses
Every horse is different: before starting, always observe its reaction to the brush to understand how sensitive it is and which brush is most suitable.
Start at the neck and move in the direction of the hair, then continue over the rest of the body. Where necessary, you can also work gently against the direction of the hair, using the curry comb to remove dry dirt or small accumulations of mud. If necessary, brush the mane and tail as well, always gently to avoid unnecessarily pulling out the hair.
There is no need to brush forcefully; you must find the right balance between effective grooming and the horse’s well-being. Some horses are more sensitive than others. For example, horses with light-colored coats may be more delicate, so brushing should be carried out with even greater care.
Throughout the process, continue observing the horse: its reactions help you understand how it feels and, at the same time, allow you to work safely at all times.
Cleaning the hooves: an essential step
Once brushing is complete, we move on to the hooves. Using the hoof pick, we gently remove dirt, mud, and small stones that may become lodged beneath the hoof. Finally, we use the small integrated brush to complete the cleaning.
This is a check that should never be skipped, because even a small stone can become a major source of discomfort during a long day of trekking.
Daily care during the trek
After a few days of trekking, you will realize that brushing the horse is not just a routine task, but an opportunity for observation and connection. It is precisely through these small daily gestures that much of the bond developed during a trek is created.
If you are new to riding and would like to learn at your own pace how to groom, saddle, and care for a horse before getting in the saddle, you can do so during our Beginner Riders Morocco. Knowing how to ride is essential, but taking care of the most important companion on your adventure is equally important.