Time to Shine: Get That Glossy Coat Back

What a bold and momentous way to (hopefully) finish winter... British weather never ceases to amaze me, but I really did underestimate the effect that the 'Beast from the East' would have last week. Here in Leicestershire we got off rather lightly, but some of the photographs and videos I have seen took me by surprise. I take my Uvex off to those of you that dug, or even skied, your way to the yard to de-frost water pipes and bolts then feed and muck-out your ponies whilst they were snowed into their stables. Kudos to you!

I feel like I can (safely) say that we'll now make good progress towards the pleasantries of a blooming Spring, especially having gone from -2 to +7 oC overnight, But what about your horses dull coat? The dry patch where your spurs make contact? Or 'The Balding Half Mane'? Well, here's some tips and tricks for you to try as steps to get that glossy coat back.

Cornucrescine

A goof friend recommended this for 'The Balding Half Mane.' ***WARNING*** This stuff is thick, sticky and black so apply it with gloves (I use a marigold). I would try a test patch too beforehand, just to ensure that your horse won't have a reaction. First of all, try to warm the cornucrescine up by 'massaging' it with your fingertips. Once it is softer, apply small amounts evenly to the roots of the mane and massage it in. This will look a bit unattractive for a while, so if you're heading out somewhere soon be prepared for black highlights (no prob if you have a bay/black horse). I have just applied my third lot of cornucrescine (each application was set apart by around 7-10 days) and I now have approximately 4" of mane to play with! Cornucrescine can also be used for the general health of winter hooves and winter finger nails.

Botanicals

I love TLC. We don't get much me-time as horse owners, unfortunately the equestrian life doesn't allow for long and luxurious spa days. I do enjoy running oil-infused baths, natural face creams or serums and shampoo that makes you want to take a sip though. I love it because I can close my eyes and just pretend I'm at Ragdale Hall. I recently picked up Absorbine Botanicals Body Rinse for horses at £6.50 in the R&R sale. I liked the idea because the natural properties of its ingredients, such as lavender, can work wonders on rehydration relaxation and restoration. Yesterday I picked up a half price bottle of lavender oil from Holland & Barratt and a big bottle of lavender bath bubbles for 90p from Home Bargains (my go-to for non-horsey substitute bargains)... I'm taking Lily to the spa!

* Home Bargains also sell a leather hole-punch for £2.99!

* I also visited an alterations shop yesterday and sweet-talked a nice man for a free stitch-pick, they are are perfect for quickly undoing plaits at an event (although the new QuickKnot looks tempting).

Grooming

We're all guilty of being a bit idle during the winter because we're tired or fed up, alternatively it might just be too damn cold to take your horses rug off, but grooming is vital for the hair follicles and stimulating hair growth. I have to remind myself that they teach you which brushes are used for what when you're at Pony Club for a reason and that a curry comb, a body brush and a dandy brush all serve a purpose. There are many other benefits of grooming though, check them out here and here.