Autumn also brings its own set of challenges, many of us are still competing and wanting to keep their coats in tip top condition, the battle of the constant coat shedding is real, however, I highly recommend the Ezee Groom Shedding Blade by Smart Grooming which effortlessly glides through the coat removing excess hair grease and dander; perfect for a pre competition glow up or every day maintenance (it also does a great job on my Jack Russell who non-stop moults). A post shed bath is also another way to combat the grease and Equitogs has an abundance of shampoos available, especially from NAF and Equine America.
A good grooming session is not only a great way to spend some much needed quality time with my horses, but also another chance to run my eye over them in more detail, checking for any abnormalities or health concerns. HAAS Brushes have been a game changer for me, yes they are a slightly more luxury item, but you certainly get what you pay for. The quality is there from the moment you pick up one of their brushes, the way it sits in your hand, balanced and shaped perfectly, to the carefully crafted selection of brushes, there is one designed for every job. It’s easy to use the same hard bristled brush all over the body to remove that stubborn dried mud, but HAAS does a much softer bristled brush that is much kinder around the face, whilst still getting the job done, trust me… your horses will thank you for it!
Another staple for an “Autumn Grooming Kit” is a decent selection of sprays, you really can't go wrong with Carr and Day and Martin Mane & Tail Detangler, a quick spritz and you're good to go. Sadly those pesky flies haven't quite left us yet, and if you have a horse as fussy as mine about flies you will most certainly have a decent stock of spray already! My go-to is Carr and Day and Martin Fly Guard Extra Strength with the matching gel, I use an old sponge to gently apply it to his face.
I'd also be checking that my clippers are in good working order and that I have a sharp set of blades and clipping oil to hand. I like to use them on any feathers which may start to appear now that their coats are changing, as well as trimming their tails and bridle paths. Having borrowed a pair of the Heiniger Saphir Clippers last year, I swiftly went out and bought a pair. I think they are the best battery powered clippers on the market. They are so light compared to my old heavy duty mains powered ones, much easier to clip with, and, as they are lighter, quieter and more gentle I find the horses prefer them, even the more nervous ones seem to relax into it. A great practice is to give your horse a proper bath before you clip them, either the day before or the morning of, it makes the job a much nicer experience for everyone. The blades won't get clogged up with grease, causing hair pulling and over hot blades, plus the overall finish will be much smoother with no clipping lines. You can then give them a hot cloth wash with either the NAF Love the Skin Wash or the Smart Grooming Hot Cloth Wash. I like to use one of my partners old microfibre towels as they trap every last bit of hair and grease.
I'm lucky that during the Autumn months my horse's daily routine can predominantly stay the same. I have great access to as much turnout as they require and they are mostly still out at night, but by investing in quality products I can ensure that they receive the very best in seasonal care and continue to feel in tip top shape!
