From Katherine Blocksdorf,
Your Guide to Horses.
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Grooming is an activity that is enjoyable for both you and your horse. It is also a good opportunity to check for injuries and irritations. Try to make grooming a daily habit. It is an absolute must before riding. Grit beneath the saddle will be uncomfortable for your horse and could cause sores. Start from the left or right of your horse. These instructions assume you will start on the left side, but as long as you cover the whole horse is does not matter.

Have your grooming tools arranged in a safe convenient place. A wide bucket may be cheapest and easiest to put your brushes in, although there are lots of grooming boxes on the market that keep your tools organized and handy.

You will need:

• A curry comb or grooming mitt.
• A body brush with fairly stiff bristles.
• A mane and tail comb. Plastic causes less breakage than metal ones.
• A fine soft bristled finishing brush.
• A hoof pick.
• A clean sponge or soft cloth.

Nice to have:

• Grooming spray.
• Hoof ointment if recommended by your farrier.
• Scissors or clippers.

Don’t sit your bucket or box too close to your horse where he could knock it over, or where you might trip over it as you move around your horse. Also have your horse securely and safely tied either with cross ties or with a quick release knot.