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Horse shaving – tips, materials and rental service

Horse shaving – why, when, and how do you do it?

As a horse lover, you want your horse to look well-groomed, feel good, and perform optimally. In autumn and winter, horses often grow a thick coat, which provides warmth but also causes sweating problems while riding. That's why many riders choose to (partially) clip their horse. But when is it necessary, how do you go about it, and what do you need?


Why clip horses?

Horses grow a winter coat in the fall as natural protection against the cold. However, for horses that are intensively trained or ridden regularly, this thick coat can actually be detrimental.

While riding, they don't dissipate heat effectively, so they sweat and stay wet for a long time afterwards – which increases the risk of catching a cold. Clipping your horse helps him dry faster and stay more comfortable while working.

Benefits of shaving:

  • Your horse dries faster after riding
  • Less chance of skin problems or cold after sweating
  • Easier to keep the coat clean and groomed
  • A neat and tidy appearance

When is the best time to shave?

Most horses are clipped between October and February, depending on their training and coat growth.
A good moment is when you notice that your horse sweats a lot after riding and has difficulty drying.

Some horses are sheared several times per winter, especially if they are trained intensively or compete.

Please note that clipped horses have lost their natural protection, so make sure you have a matching blanket after shaving.


The right shaver and accessories

A good result starts with good material. Divoza Horseworld you will find a wide range shaving machines, hair clippers and accessories from top brands such as Heiniger, Lister and Kerbl.

Choose a machine that suits the horse type and coat length.

  • Full shearing machines are ideal for the entire body of larger horses.
  • Precision clippers are useful for sensitive areas such as the head and legs.

In addition you need:

  • Sharp knives – for an even result without pulling
  • Shaving oil – to keep the blades running smoothly and prevent overheating
  • Brush and cloth – to keep the machine clean while working

A well-maintained clipper will last for years and prevents irritation for your horse.


Rent a shearing machine at Divoza

Do you only want to shave occasionally or first experience which machine suits you best? Then you can Divoza Horseworld temporarily rents a clipper.

The rental of a shearing machine is € 25 per day en €15 per following day.
There will be one deposit of €100 asked.
Any damage to the appliance or blades is at your own risk.

Always ensure the blades are properly oiled and adjusted to prevent overheating – loose blades cost €59,95 per set and in case of damage they will be deducted from the deposit.

When collecting you must provide a valid identification to bring along.
Shaving machines can be collected at one of the Divoza stores.
More information can be found at: https://divoza.com/diensten/huurservice/


Tips for shaving your horse

  1. Wash and dry the coat well in advance – dirt and sand quickly dull the blades.
  2. Use shaving oil regularly while shaving to keep the blades cool.
  3. Work calmly and evenly with long streaks, always in the direction of the hair growth.
  4. Protect sensitive areas such as ears and legs, or use a smaller clipper.
  5. Provide warmth after shaving – a good blanket is essential.

Conclusion: good material makes the difference

Whether you're an experienced rider or new to clipping a horse, the right preparation and a quality clipper will make the job a lot easier and safer.

At Divoza Horseworld Find everything you need to clip your horse professionally – from clippers and blades to maintenance oil and accessories. Would you rather try a machine first to see if you like it? Then use the handy rental service.

This way you keep your horse fresh, comfortable and well-groomed all season long.