Post 8 - Getting the horse ready for the rider

The horse is brought from the pasture and placed in an enclosure. There are four covered spots, open on both ends, separated by fence units sturdy enough to support saddles and supplies. And wide enough for the horse and workers. Before the horse arrives the helpers gather the items needed. Each rider has a specific type of saddle, saddle pad, and reins. Each horse has a specific bridle,

When the horse (the hero) arrives, he is groomed. The curry comb is used in a circular motion to get the dust, mud and debris from the horse’s body. Wouldn’t if be nice to receive a massage each day? The horses like this and the brushing with the hard brush that follows. Sometimes we wipe their faces of gently comb the manes with a soft brush, the on to the manicure—using the pick on the hoofs. First on the outside, then digging out any pebbles, mud, or dirt, carefully avoiding the frog area mentioned in an earlier post.

After grooming the horse receives the pad, saddle, girth. Then the halter is removed and the bridle placed on the horse and the reins (selected for a specific rider) are attached. Now the horse is ready for his class with a rider. Next post will concern the riders.