Show Groom Essentials
Whether you groom for yourself at shows or you employ the aid of the friendly neighborhood barn kid or your best friend, this list should definitely be of assistance!! Having been a groom myself, these are some tips and tricks I've discovered. (And I apologize for the lack of a list format. If someone could tell me a way to do it without sending my post early, I would greatly appreciate it 😂) 1. A hoof pick with a good stiff brush. This pick is not for the horse's feet, but rather to scrape and scrub wet sand off wraps and boots. This. Is. A. LIFE SAVER!!!!! It will keep the sand collection in your ringside bag to a minimum and will keep the wraps/boots clean for longer!!! 2. A mesh drawstring bag to stuff wraps/boots into. The sand can fall through the mesh and you won't get your grooming backpack filled with grit. 3. Water bottles for you, your rider, and the syringe used to wash out the horse's mouth. Bonus points for packing snacks!! (But be sure to not give the rider anything sugary before the class. Sugar can make nerves worse) 4. A GPS to track your rider. I say this humorously, but you may want to take this seriously, because whenever they leave you alone with the horse, they are almost guaranteed to be found on the opposite end of the facility. 5. Damp cloth/baby wipes. Excellent for last minute stain/dirt/mark removal from clothes, the horse, boots, etc. A damp cloth easily shines up the horse's coat and minimalizes the appearance of dust. 6. Treats for the horse, of course!! 7. Always carry the whip with you, you'll never know when the rider may need some assistance with the horse responding to the aids. The same goes for a lead rope, in case the horse needs to be led in hand from ring to ring. 8. Sunscreen and a hat!! Summer days in the heat can be brutal otherwise! 9. Lastly but not least, carry with you always kind words, a positive attitude, and calm energy so regardless of how the day goes, your rider knows you are there to support and cheer on!!!
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