Coat Clipping of Horses: A Survey.

This research looks into the common practices of coat clipping in sport horses. The study collected data via an online survey in Germany, garnering responses on questions about timing, purpose, technique and varied aspects of post-clip horse care. The results will provide insights and potentially influence welfare recommendations for horse clipping practices.

Study Methodology

• The study employed an online survey distributed in Germany to gather data about horse clipping practices.
• A total of 498 individuals participated, completing at least one question of the available 32, with 373 participants completing the entire set.
• The questions aimed to gather data on the purpose, technique, timing of clipping, and care provided to the horse afterward.

Key Findings

• The majority of clipped horses were sport horses, accounting for 68% of the instances. These horses were primarily clipped before or during winter (88%), while a small portion were clipped year-round (7%).
• The timing of clipping activities was scheduled based on three criteria: hair length (52%), sweat amount (47%), and drying time (47%).
• The survey found two primary clipping techniques in use among participants: the “hunter clip” and the “blanket clip”. In both techniques, the horse’s head was not clipped. Each method was used by 23% of the respondents.
• Post-clipping, most of the horses wore a blanket both during the day and night, representing more than 90% of the cases.

Implications of the Study

• The findings of this study shed light on how and why horse owners and trainers in Germany clip their horses.
• Knowing these common practices can assist professionals such as veterinarians and animal welfare experts in developing guidelines or recommendations for best practices in horse clipping, particularly for sport horses.
• The study authors suggest further research involving field observation to corroborate the survey data and enrich the understanding of this topic.