How to Use a Towel to Groom a Horse

Grooming your horse with a towel is typically the last step of the grooming process, after the horse has been thoroughly brushed. Rubbing with a towel lets you clean sensitive areas, such as the nostrils and ears. Then do a full-body rub down to remove dust and make the horse's coat shine.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Approach the horse slowly with the towel in your hand. Speak softly to the horse and gently stroke his muzzle with the towel. Some horses are head shy, meaning they dislike it when you touch their head.

2. Gently swipe the insides of the horse's nostrils to remove any dust or waste. Use a light touch, as the nostrils are very sensitive.

3. Repeat this process with the ears of the horse. Continue to talk softly and lightly pet the horse as you groom. This comforts the animal and makes horse grooming a positive experience.

4. Wipe down the body of the horse with long, even strokes. When you brush a horse, dust is pulled from the skin to the surface of the the horse's coat. Rubbing a horse with a towel after brushing removes that final layer of dust and lets the coat shine.

Tips & Warnings

• When grooming a horse, always use a clean towel. This prevents spreading germs and illness from horse to horse.