Helpful Clipping Tips

· It is best to clip when you and the horse are calm.

· Avoid feed and turnout times.

· The horse should be exercised and be in a clean and dry condition.

· Have suitable rugs to hand.

· Mark the edges of the clip with a piece of damp saddle soap, cattle marker or tailor's chalk.

· Put a tail bandage on and plait up the lower section of tail doubling up and fixing with an elastic band. This will keep all the tail hair away from the legs.

· Let the machine run for a while to allow the horse to get used to the noise.

· Check tension is correct, and make sure switches and circuit breaker are working.

· Be firm and confident.

· Depending on the clip start on the shoulder, neck or gullet. If the horse is nervy, hold the machine against him (without clipping) until he settles.

· Clip with firm, even pressure, against the lie of the coat, keep the tips of the blades against the skin.

· Go steadily and overlap each run by 50% for a neat, even finish.

· Get you helper to hold forelegs forward in order to stretch the skin in the girth area.

· Don't clip folds or wrinkles, you will cut the horse.

Oil the blades liberally and regularly (every 5-10mins) throughout clipping.

For Further information: on clipping, buying a set of clippers and clipper maintenance, visit www.clippersharp.com or contact
Clipper Sharp Clipper Services, Southwoods Farm, Culmstock, Collumpton, Devon, EX15 3JX.
Tel: 01823 681076,
Fax: 01823 681076 or email: richard@clippersharp.com

Article kindly provided by Clipper Sharp