How to Remove Pine Tar From Horses

Horses often seek refuge from the heat, rain or wind beneath pine trees. The horse will also not hesitate to rub its rump, head, shoulders or neck against the trunk of the tree to itch itself and rub off loose, shedding hair. The pine tree produces an ample amount of tar, also called sap, that weeps from the tree's bark surface. The sticky material can become entangled in the horse's hair and mane.

Things You'll Need

  • Petroleum-based product
  • Automotive hand soap
  • Washcloth
  • Comb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Apply a quarter-sized dab of a petroleum-based product such as WD-40 or an automotive hand cleaner to a washcloth. Rub the substance into the pine tar spot on the horse's fur.

    • 2

      Rub the fur with the washcloth until the tar begins to break up. Pick away small pieces of the tar as it loosens using your fingers to effectively remove it from the fur. If the tar is stuck in the horse's mane, use a comb to manipulate the tar out of the fur.

    • 3

      Wash the petroleum-based substance or automotive hand cleaner away from the horse's hair using a warm, moist washcloth. Rub away all the petroleum-based substance or automotive hand cleaner and the tar so it does not irritate the horse's skin.