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5 Tips That Are Key for Clipping Season
As the seasons change, so does the coat of your horse. Clipping your horse isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial part of equine care that ensures their comfort and health. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to horse clipping, we have got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore five key tips to ensure a successful and stress-free clipping season.
PLAN AHEAD
One of our top tips is ensuring you get your clippers serviced and blades sharpened well ahead of clipping season! Dull blades can cause discomfort to your horse and result in uneven cutting. The weeks heading into clipping season are super hectic for servicing and repairs agents. To stay on top of the game and get your clippers serviced with plenty of time, reach out to your local Lister-recommended servicing and repairs agent and get booked in!
DON’T FORGET YOUR OIL
A big mistake many people make when clipping is not oiling enough, we recommend oiling every 5-10 minutes to keep the blades cool and lubricated. Not oiling enough can lead to your clippers getting hot, making the whole experience for the horse quite uncomfortable. Oiling you blades will also keep them in top condition.
PLAN YOUR STYLE OF CLIP
There are several important components to consider before clipping your horse, such as their workload, breed, living environment, and medical conditions. If your horse is in light work and lives out in the field most of the time, a bib or trace clip may be well suited. Additionally, if your horse is prone to mud fever, not clipping their legs may allow for extra protection for the skin.
PREPARATION FOR CLIPPING
Before you start clipping, take time to prepare your horse adequately. Begin by bathing and cleaning your horse with shampoo before being clipped. This is to ensure you have thoroughly removed all dirt, mud and tangles from their coat. The main reason we recommend this is due to dirt and grease blunting your blades, making the clip not as sharp and precise. You may also struggle clipping through dirt and grease, meaning there will be an excessive amount of stress on the clippers, which may cause them to overheat.
Having a stiff-bristled brush to hand can also come in handy when clipping to ensure the excess hair doesn’t build up on the clipper, something like a dandy brush or a flick brush is perfect for getting those hairs off your clipper and blades. Blade ice is also a must-have in your clipping kit! Not only does the spray cool down the blades if you’re clipping for long periods of time, but it is also really good at cleaning your clippers after use!
CHECK THROUGH YOUR KIT
Ensure you have the correct blades for your horse. If your horse has a hairier coat type, you may need a coarse blade to tackle the thickness. For more information surrounding blade types, head over to our blade guide!
Horse clipping season can be a rewarding when you follow these key tips. By planning ahead, choosing the correct blades, maintaining your blades and preparing for clipping, you can ensure a successful and comfortable clipping season for both you and your equine companion. Remember that practice makes perfect, so take your time and be patient.