How to Trim a Donkey

When entering a donkey into a competition or show, the animal must be perfectly groomed. Clippers are the primary grooming tool used to cut away unwanted hair from the anima. Several sizes of clippers are used during the grooming process to reach small areas around the hooves and to trim large surfaces such as the back and sides. Have the animal become accustomed to the sound of the clippers before you start cutting to keep the animal calm.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Equine shampoo
  • Brush
  • Clippers (various sizes)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the donkey with equine shampoo prior to cutting to remove all the dirt from its coat. If necessary, complete two washings to remove all the dirt before trimming.

    • 2

      Tie the donkey in a location that prevents him from moving forward, sideways or backwards, such as in a stall with a corner. This allows you to have good access on one side for clipping and prevents the animal from moving or escaping.

    • 3

      Trim the hair at the rear of the donkey first, going against the grain of the hair. Use short strokes with the clipper, and keep it at a steady angle to get an even length.

    • 4

      Move from the rear of the donkey to the front, using the same clipping method. To clip the hair on the underbelly you will need to bend and twist underneath the animal, as the hair there is very soft and difficult to cut. Brush the donkey as you trim, to help you find places you have missed.

    • 5

      Trim the legs and neck with a smaller clipper, as this is a more delicate area. Use the same technique as the body but with more caution --- many donkeys do not like to have these sensitive areas trimmed. Use the longest setting on the small clipper for the legs and set it to a short setting to trim the hair around the hooves.

    • 6

      Trim the head, ears and nose with a small clipper, set to a close setting. This is the donkey's most sensitive area so exercise caution. When trimming the ears, do not trim the hair inside the ear. Place a cotton ball in the ear to help protect the hair from being accidentally trimmed.

    • 7

      Trim the mane to a length that flatters the specific donkey you are working with. If the donkey has a thin neck, leave the mane a bit long to conceal this. How the mane looks is a matter of preference so cut it in a way that you feel best suits the animal.