It's Shedding Horse Season! How Best To Manage Your Horse Shedding Their Coat

DeShedding brushes and tools are essential grooming items designed to reduce shedding by removing loose hair from a pet's coat, whether it be a horse, dog, cat, or other furry animals. These tools help keep the coat healthy, minimize shedding around the home, and prevent matting and hair buildup.

Types of DeShedding Brushes & Tools:

1. Furminator :

   • The Furminator is one of the most popular deShedding tools. It features a stainless steel edge that reaches through the topcoat to safely and easily remove loose hair and undercoat without damaging the topcoat or cutting the skin.
   • It’s available in different sizes and models for various coat lengths and pet sizes.

1. Slicker Brushes :

   • Slicker brushes have fine, short wires close together on a flat surface. They are particularly effective at removing loose fur and detangling mats, making them a good option for dogs and cats with medium to long fur.
   • These brushes can also help with massaging the skin, promoting circulation and a healthy coat.

2. Rubber Curry Brushes :

   • Typically used for horses but also effective for dogs with short coats, rubber curry brushes feature flexible rubber teeth that attract loose hair.
   • These brushes are also great for removing dirt and debris while providing a gentle massage that stimulates natural oil production in the skin.

3. Undercoat Rakes :

   • Undercoat rakes are designed to remove loose hair from the undercoat of double-coated breeds. These tools have long teeth that penetrate deep into the coat to reach the undercoat.
   • They are especially useful for breeds with thick, heavy undercoats, like Huskies or German Shepherds.

4. Shedding Blades :

   • Shedding blades are metal strips with a serrated edge used to remove loose hair. They are particularly useful for larger animals like horses, but can also be used on dogs.
   • These tools are effective at removing large amounts of hair quickly but should be used with care to avoid skin irritation.

Benefits of Using DeShedding Tools:

1. Reduces Shedding :

   • Regular use of deShedding tools significantly reduces the amount of loose hair, keeping it off furniture, clothes, and floors.

2. Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat :

   • By removing loose hair and preventing mats, deShedding tools help maintain a healthy coat. The process also stimulates the skin, promoting natural oil distribution, which keeps the coat shiny and soft.

3. Prevents Matting :

   • Mats can form when loose hair tangles in the coat, particularly in long-haired breeds. DeShedding tools help prevent this by removing the loose hair before it can mat.

4. Improves Comfort for the Animal :

   • Shedding can cause discomfort, especially in hot weather. Removing excess hair helps the animal stay cool and comfortable.

How to Use DeShedding Tools:

• Start with a clean, dry coat : For best results, the pet's coat should be clean and dry before using a deShedding tool.
• Brush in the direction of hair growth : Use gentle, even strokes in the direction of the hair growth to avoid pulling or irritating the skin.
• Be mindful of sensitive areas : Take care when brushing near sensitive areas like the belly, face, and legs, especially with tools that have metal edges.
• Regular grooming : Regular use of deShedding tools, especially during shedding seasons, can make a significant difference in coat health and shedding management.

By integrating these tools into a regular grooming routine, pet owners can significantly reduce shedding, promote a healthier coat, and enhance the overall well-being of their pets.