End of the Tail Should be Kept Trimmed

The end of the tail should be kept trimmed and is known as a banged tail. Standing to one side of the horse gently lift the tail under one arm to the height at which the horse normally carries it when working.

Then trim the end of the tail so that it falls approximately 4 in (10 cm) below the point of hock. It should be trimmed absolutely dead straight across the bottom. A well-pulled tail is extremely attractive, but pulling a tail well is a real art. Always be very careful when commencing to pull a tail; not all horses appreciate it.

Begin at the dock and taking a few hairs at a time, start to remove them from the underneath of the sides, shaping as you go. Never use scissors or clippers to do this as it looks dreadful! Pull the tail to approximately 7 in (18 cm) from the top, and then dampen it and put on a tail bandage.

To trim all the longer unsightly hair from the legs, you will need a comb and a pair of scissors. Comb the hair against the direction of growth, and holding the comb in one hand, trim the hair level to the comb.

You can work around the fetlock and heels, and then up the leg taking off all the coarse hair. It is harder than it looks to do a good job, and the hair should end up appearing smooth with no scissor marks.