What constitutes proper horse grooming according to PATH International standards?

Proper horse grooming, according to PATH International standards, encompasses the practice of regular grooming to ensure the health and comfort of the horse, as well as its readiness for various activities. This approach highlights the importance of frequent and thorough grooming as part of a horse's overall care routine. Regular grooming not only helps to maintain a horse's physical well-being by preventing skin issues, detecting injuries, and promoting circulation, but it also serves to strengthen the bond between the horse and handler.

Grooming solely before competitions does not address the ongoing care needed for the horse's health and comfort throughout its daily life, nor does focusing only on aesthetics account for the functional aspects of grooming that are critical for the horse's overall condition. A minimum grooming frequency of once a week may not be sufficient for proper care, especially for horses that are active or in training. Thus, the standards encourage a more comprehensive and routine approach to grooming that contributes positively to both the horse's physical health and its readiness for various activities.