Get Ready for Body Clipping Season: Essential Tips for a Smooth Experience
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As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, it signals the start of body clipping season for your horse. Recognizing when it's time to clip is key: your horse may not dry quickly after lessons, or you might notice his coat growing long and fuzzy. This is the perfect time to prepare your clippers and gear for a smooth clipping process.
Preparing Your Horse for Body Clipping
Essential Clipping Preparation
Before you begin clipping, ensure your horse is thoroughly bathed. This step is crucial as a clean coat allows clippers to glide smoothly, reducing lines and improving the overall finish. For an extra-soft coat, mix Vetrolin and conditioner with water, apply it with a sponge, and sweat scrape it off. This mixture helps your clippers work more efficiently and extends their lifespan by preventing dirt and fungus build-up.
Gather Your Clipping Supplies
To achieve the best results, gather the following supplies:
- Multiple Pairs of Clipper Blades: Keep several blades on hand to swap out as needed. Allow used blades to rest in blade oil or use a blade coolant spray to prevent overheating and skin burns.
- Dandy Brush: Handy for removing excess hair.
- Extension Cord: Essential if you’re working in a barn with limited power outlets.
Maintaining Your Horse's Coat Color Post-Clip
Use ExcelEQ for Optimal Coat Health
For those with dark-colored horses, maintaining a rich, dark coat post-clip can be challenging. Start your horse on ExcelEQ supplements at least one to two weeks before clipping. Our experience with ExcelEQ ProElite showed a significant improvement in coat shine and color retention. The Omega-3 fatty acids in Excel products support coat integrity, prevent color fading, and help horses with skin sensitivities.
Daily Grooming Practices
To keep your horse’s coat shiny:
- Curry Regularly: Daily currying removes dirt and stimulates natural oils, contributing to a glossy coat. Aim to curry at least once a day, or more frequently if needed.
- Use Turnout Blankets: Protect your horse’s coat from sun exposure with turnout sheets. This helps prevent color fading and maintains coat sheen.
- Limit Bathing: Bathe your horse no more than once or twice a week. Excessive bathing strips natural oils, reducing shine and increasing the risk of fungus and dandruff.
- Avoid Alcohol-Based Products: Alcohol can dull your horse’s coat and dry out the skin. Opt for a damp towel or sponge with warm water for removing saddle and bridle marks.
Final Clipping Tips
Ensure your horse has appropriate blankets and coolers post-clip. Properly fitting blankets prevent rubbing and discomfort. If you’re unsure about fit, consult your trainer or barn manager for assistance.
With these tips, you'll be well-prepared for a successful body clipping season. Happy clipping!
