1. INTRODUCTION TO TRIMMING & CLIPPING PROCEDURES

2. Things to remember before you trim a horse
If a horse is to pastured during the summer months the mane and tail should not be trimmed, as they serve as protection against insects
The body hair offers a shield from the weather and natural oils in the horse’s coat prevent rain from penetrating the skin
The hair of the fetlock protects the pastern from rough terrain and directs rain away from the skin.
The long hairs covering the coronet band protects the people ring, which helps to moisturized the hood and the heels.
Whiskers and eyebrows act as feelers to protect the horse from the elements
Ear hair keeps bugs and cold air out of the inner ear
The horse’s living condition and the advice of a knowledgeable person will help determine your horse’s clipping needs.

3. Clipping for cosmetic reasons may include the ears, muzzle, eyebrows, under-jaw, and legs.
Bridle Path: Is clipped to varying lengths behind the pole. This can vary from breed & conformation. A good rule of thumb is to clip the length of the ear when laid bock of the neck.
Reasons for clipping a bridle path is to make bridling easier and to reduce sweating under the crown piece.
Shortening or pulling the mane or tail should not appear blunt or choppy.
Roaching a mane means to remove the mane except what is covering the withers, so the tack does not rub.
Chestnuts may be peeled off to avoid excess growth. Caution should be used. Avoid using force as to not tear tissue which could cause area to bleed profusely.

4. Preparation For Clipping….
Introduce and desensitize the horse before using the clippers
The hair should be clean and dry, pre-bath helps the hair stand up when dried .Bathing should be done on warm days or in a draft free sable to reduce the chance of chills.