How to Care for a Horse After Riding

After a ride or a training session, it is important for your horse's safety and health to go through a series of tasks. These tasks also signal to the horse that the work is done for the day.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Cool the horse down. As with any exerciser, the horse needs to let his muscles cool down. Dismount and walk the horse around for a bit. The horse should be breathing regularly and starting to feel cooler to the touch before returning to the pen or stable.

2. Let the air in. Loosen the horse's saddle by loosening the cinch, which works similar to a belt buckle. Once back at the stable, you can take off the cinch, saddle and bridle.

3. Provide water. Give your horse access to fresh, cool water after a workout.

4. Consider grooming. Although not universally done, it's a good idea to brush your horse out after a training session. The area covered by the saddle may be sweaty, and if you allow the sweat to dry on the coat it may leave residue behind and attract dirt.

Tips & Warnings

• Never put your horse away hot.