How to Shed Out a Horse's Winter Coat

A horse is a wonderful creature to keep as a pet, but they can also be a lot of work. As the season is changing from winter to the first warm days of spring, your horse will begin to shed its winter coat. This is a process you'll probably want to pass as quickly as possible so there will be less loose horse hair flying around. These tips will show you how to help your horse shed its winter coat quickly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shedding Blade

1. 
    

   Use a shedding blade to help remove the horse's shedding hair. Be gentle so you do not hurt your horse. The shedding blade will pull free lose hair from their coat using only slight pressure.

2. Exercise your horse. Getting plenty of exercise, along with a healthy diet, will help the horse's body realize it is time to shed the unwanted hair.

3. Use a blanket on the horse during early spring to cause their bodies to begin shedding early. Make sure to keep them covered so they won't get cold.

4. 
    

   Use a currycomb and take time each day to brush your horse. Even children can be taught to use the currycomb. It is the single most effective tool you can use. Rub the currycomb in circular motions through the horse's coat.

5. Give your horse a bath to help wash out dirt and loose hair that hasn't fallen out during combing. It will make both you and your horse feel better to have less hair flying around in the air.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a blanket on hand in case the weather turns cold again. You'll need to keep the horse warm since its winter coat has been shed already.

References

• Shedding a Horse's Coat

Resources

• Advice for Shedding Out Your Horse's Coat