Clipping with confidence
Set yourself up for a trouble-free clipping season with this expert advice
Before you start
Ensure your clippers have been serviced and the blades sharpened before using them at the start of a new season. Make sure the blades are correctly tensioned and check the manufacturer’s recommendations as each make of clipper will tension in a different way. The blades will heat up more quickly if the tension is too tight, and not clip properly if too loose. For safety always use a circuit breaker if you’re using a mains clipper. Wearing overalls is recommended to keep you as hair-free as possible, as well as sturdy footwear to protect your toes. A hard hat is advisable too, just in case your horse disapproves of being clipped. Having an assistant at the ready will make clipping between your horse’s front legs easier. They can stretch the leg out in front to reduce the risk of nicking your horse around the folds of skin. They can also reassure your horse if he’s a little uncertain.
Where to clip?
Clip in a dry, light area with a non-slip flooring. Try to pick a time at the yard when it’s quiet with very few distractions to help keep your horse settled while you clip. Letting your horse have a haynet is also a good idea and will encourage him to stand still. Finally, have a rug handy to put over the areas that have been clipped to keep your horse warm.
After-clip care
Use very warm soapy water with a dash of vinegar and wipe all over the body to remove loose hair and excess grease. Dry thoroughly and rug up as necessary Remove blades from the machine and, with a soft brush, remove excess hair If the clipper has an air vent, remove this and brush it out well. Wash the vent with soapy water and replace Oil the blades and replace in their protective covering Check the lead for any breaks or signs of wear Store your clippers in a dry environment, not outside or in a damp tackroom