Tips to help you on your way:
It is easier if the tail is a bit greasy, the comb will grip better.
It is also easier if there is a reasonable length of tail to thin. If it has been previously clipped down the sides, then you will have to let it grow out an inch or so before using.
Its best not to use it down the middle of the tail, leave the central top hairs long, the hair will lay better when tail bandaged, gives the sleek, professional finish that you will want to achieve.
If you have a particularly thick, full tail, lift the top hairs up and thin the underneath hair by just combing down.
Use evenly both sides, i.e. do 2 or 3 strokes down one side and then do the same the other, and then repeat. If you are doing a full tail which hasn't been pulled or trimmed before, do a bit each day over a period of a week or so, tail bandaging in between, so that you can judge just how much you do want to tidy. It is a bit addictive!
If your horse doesn't have a problem with his tail being pulled, then tweak out the very topside hairs by hand. These are the only hairs that can sometimes not be picked up by the comb.
If you are using Smart Tails on a thick mane, it is best to brush the main over on to the wrong side (ie the side you don't plait). Then take the Smart Tail and comb down the mane as if you were combing it with a normal comb, going over the thicker areas more so that you get an even thickness. Brush back over to the plaiting side and check thickness. By doing it this way, you will be removing all the under hair and not interfering with the top hairs.
If you want to thin a thick forelock, just comb through as if you were using a normal mane comb.
If you have dogs with thick coats, these can also be used on them too! We do a comb with a wider head, which is easier to use on big dogs or horses with loads of mane! - see website or brochure for further details.
Enjoy using the Smart Tails comb, your horse will be a lot happier with your choice. If you would like to send us "Before and After" pictures (by email jpeg please) we will be putting a photo gallery together on our website shortly. Comments and pictures are always welcome. Hope this helps you with making your horse/pony a happier, smarter animal! |
