What is one key reason for maintaining a grooming routine?

Maintaining a grooming routine is vital as it plays a crucial role in assessing a horse's overall health. Regular grooming allows handlers to closely examine their horse’s skin, coat, hooves, and other body parts for any signs of abnormalities, such as injuries, infestations, or illnesses. This systematic check-up can help catch health issues early, which is essential for effective treatment and maintaining the horse's well-being.

Additionally, grooming enhances the bond between the horse and handler, creating a sense of trust and comfort, which can lead to improved responses from the horse during training and handling. While there may be benefits to show performance, nutritional intake, or learning commands, the primary and most impactful reason for grooming routines is the opportunity they provide for health assessments, ensuring that any potential problems are identified and addressed promptly.