Preparing a young horse to be clipped is time well spent. Horse clippers are often noisy, and can frighten even the most well-handled animal, if introduced too quickly. It's wise to plan ahead when you know that you will need to clip your young horse. Preparation is key to ensure that the experience is as stress free and easy as possible. Always allow plenty of time to introduce the clippers to the horse. Its best to use a quiet set of trimmers to start the learning process.
What to consider when choosing horse clippers for young horses?
There are several clippers that are more suitable for young horses, most importantly the noise and vibration levels are the key when researching the right horse clipper to use for the first time on a young horse.
Trimmers are by far the quietest and can be introduced as part of the daily grooming routine. Even if they are not always used for trimming, they can be turned on and placed on the coat, around the ears, head, heels etc, so that the horse is accustomed to the noise and sensation.,
Once the young horse is happy to stand, and is totally relaxed with the trimming process, a larger clipper can be introduced. Use the same technique to introduce the horse to the larger clipper. De-sensitising is key to gain trust and confidence from the handler.
If the young horse appears worried in any way, repeat the daily exercise of turning on the clippers and placing all over the body before clipping the hair. Once the young horse is happy with the noise of the clippers being turned on and off, and confident with having the clippers placed over all parts of the body, then it will be time to move on to clip with confidence.
If at any time the young horse becomes worried, check that the clipper blades are not getting too hot - oil regularly to keep them well lubricated and the heat to a minimum, as well as ensure they are not blunt and pulling at the hair. These are the most common reasons for horses to become unsettled and fidgeting.
Our tips for clipping young horses:
- Always have a handler nearby to give assurance to the young horse
- Choose a quiet time in the yard for clipping
- Avoid turnout and feeding times
- Clip where you would usually groom if possible so there is no change
- Keep a radio handy, its useful to have music or other noise in the background
- Allow plenty of time, and start with trimming before moving onto body clips
Depending on the nature and character of your young horse we would suggest choosing from either
the Light Duty or Medium Duty range of horse clippers.
The Light Duty Range are by the quietest and our top recommended range to consider when choosing a set for the young horse or pony. They have least vibration, and most models are cordless which is helpful when moving around a young horse or pony.
The medium duty range can also be used, but they do operate at a higher noise and pitch. If your young horse is confident and quiet when preparing for clipping, then this range could also be considered.
