Clipping - Do's and Don'ts
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Tis fluffy season, and if you are keeping your horse in work then chances are you will want it clipped.
Why do we clip? There are a multitude of reasons, namely that it is easier to dry a clipped horse after work and this prevents a chill. It also helps them regulate their body temperature in the cold air when they are sweating during work.
Of course it's also easier for those short on time to keep a clipped horse clean to work.
So what do you need to do to get your horse clipped?
If you don't have the ability to DIY it, find someone who comes recommended from word of mouth. Do your homework, nothing is worse than a botched clip job or someone who cannot handle a horse confidently when they may be nervous.
Have your horse prepared, if they have never been clipped before and you suspect it could be an issue don't hesitate to talk to your vet about sedation. This is usually the safest option for both the horse and person clipping, nobody wants to be kicked on the job! Clipping also involves a bit of standing around, have your horse prepared for this too.
Think about the most effective clip for your horse and if you aren't sure, talk to your clipper when you book and they will be able to advise you.
Pre clipping day; make sure your horse has been shampooed to have the skin and coat clean. This makes a much cleaner clipping job, and prevents the blades from getting clogged and going blunt (keeping your clipper person happy!)
On the day; make sure your horse is caught, clean and brushed ready for your clipper to arrive. They are busy people and don't have time to wait for you to drag your fluffy muddy beast in from the back paddock. If you have shelter from rain and wind, definitely use it. If not then make sure to let your clipper know when you book.
Post clipping; check your horse over before your clipper leaves, make sure you are 100% happy with the job before they leave - this really is non negotiable.
Give your horse a wash to remove any small itchy hairs and a post clip coat oil is always a great idea to restore the lost oils in the coat.
If your horse was fully clipped you will want to add a few grams to their rug and keep them warm!
Lastly and most importantly, don't forget to promptly pay your clipper.
Why do we clip? There are a multitude of reasons, namely that it is easier to dry a clipped horse after work and this prevents a chill. It also helps them regulate their body temperature in the cold air when they are sweating during work.
Of course it's also easier for those short on time to keep a clipped horse clean to work.
So what do you need to do to get your horse clipped?
If you don't have the ability to DIY it, find someone who comes recommended from word of mouth. Do your homework, nothing is worse than a botched clip job or someone who cannot handle a horse confidently when they may be nervous.
Have your horse prepared, if they have never been clipped before and you suspect it could be an issue don't hesitate to talk to your vet about sedation. This is usually the safest option for both the horse and person clipping, nobody wants to be kicked on the job! Clipping also involves a bit of standing around, have your horse prepared for this too.
Think about the most effective clip for your horse and if you aren't sure, talk to your clipper when you book and they will be able to advise you.
Pre clipping day; make sure your horse has been shampooed to have the skin and coat clean. This makes a much cleaner clipping job, and prevents the blades from getting clogged and going blunt (keeping your clipper person happy!)
On the day; make sure your horse is caught, clean and brushed ready for your clipper to arrive. They are busy people and don't have time to wait for you to drag your fluffy muddy beast in from the back paddock. If you have shelter from rain and wind, definitely use it. If not then make sure to let your clipper know when you book.
Post clipping; check your horse over before your clipper leaves, make sure you are 100% happy with the job before they leave - this really is non negotiable.
Give your horse a wash to remove any small itchy hairs and a post clip coat oil is always a great idea to restore the lost oils in the coat.
If your horse was fully clipped you will want to add a few grams to their rug and keep them warm!
Lastly and most importantly, don't forget to promptly pay your clipper.