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Cosmetic Clipping
When it comes to clipping and trimming, show horse producers are never without their clippers in preparation for the early spring shows. Top show rider and producer, Lynn Russell gives her top tips, so before you attempt to tidy up your horse, find a new set of clippers and read Lynn’s top tips:
Clipping this early in the year, you will probably already have clipped your horse at least once (or possibly more if you own a hairy monster!). A small tidy up to keep him looking smart now, means that by the time the summer shows kick in, you should be an expert at clipping with all those mistakes left well and truly out of the show ring!
It’s important to ensure that you have a clean and dry horse to start with, as not only will a dirty horse blunt your blades, but it will make your job even more difficult. If it’s possible to wash your horse a couple of days before this is advisable, however this is not always possible and so I use my Lynn Russell Quick Shine, which really does work fantastically as a pre-clipping spray, allowing the clippers to glide through even the thickest coat.
When it comes to trimming the head, use an adjustable head collar to get to the tricky bits, such as under the chin. There are plenty of smaller cable free clippers that are quieter and are ideal for those horses that are slightly apprehensive and also easier to direct, if you find larger clippers more cumbersome.
Many show horses have their muzzle hair and ear hair trimmed, but as you are removing their natural protection make sure that your horse wears ‘protective fly ears’ come spring time .Although it is generally thought to look neater, most judges at local level wouldn’t put you down the line-up if you preferred to leave his whiskers on. When clipping the ears, use slow, confident, sweeping motions with the clippers, around the edge of the ears and purse the ear together and trim off the excess hair that ‘tufts’ out of the ear when it is closed –this should neaten up the appearance. Professional riders do generally remove all of the ear hair, but this is personal preference and not essential.
When it comes to trimming the legs, make sure that you always have one hand on the horses leg to feel if they are going to move and never kneel down, just in case he suddenly moves or kicks out. If you have a helper –make sure that you both stand on the same side as each other, then if the horse moves away from you and the clippers, he won’t fly into your helper! Remember to take your time when clipping out legs, as a good clip will compliment the overall picture and a rushed job will draw attention for all the wrong reasons!
Finally finish off by squaring off the end of the horse's tail with a clean sweep of the clippers. This will give a more much professional look to the tail, than scissors, however be careful not to take too much off!
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Trimming the muzzle |
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Remember to clean and check your clippers regularly whilst trimming |
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