• Don’t pull too much hair at once, try to keep on top of it every couple of weeks. This makes it easier for the horse as you don’t have to take too much each time.
• Pull a tail after exercise when the horse is warm and the pores are open. The hair will come out easier.
• Have a helper to hold the horse and if you are worried about getting kicked, put a bale or a stable door between you and the horse’s back legs.

• Don’t pull too much hair at once, try to keep on top of it every couple of weeks. This makes it easier for the horse as you don’t have to take too much each time.
• Pull a tail after exercise when the horse is warm and the pores are open. The hair will come out easier.
• Have a helper to hold the horse and if you are worried about getting kicked, put a bale or a stable door between you and the horse’s back legs.
• Hold the tail up by the end of the dock. Any hair that hangs down the sides of the dock needs to come out.
• Grasp the hair at the sides of the dock with one hand and use a metal comb to back comb and then pull the hair out.
• Pull to a length that shows off the horse’s buttocks to it’s best (usually just below the point of buttock).
• Only pull a small amount from the middle of the dock as it may start to look bald.
• Tails used to be pulled for practical reasons e.g. to allow a flow of air to the horse’s bottom while he was being exercised and to help him cool down quicker afterwards.

This video and these key points reflect the views and preferred method of the person demonstrating the technique. Horse Hero recommends you ask an expert for advice if you need guidance or are unsure how to do this yourself and take every precaution for the safety of you and your horse. (www.horsehero.com)