[Tami]

Hello, I just purchased a beautiful Shire who needs some TLC. He has a beautiful long mane and feathers that need trimming. Just wondering if there are any tricks of the trade for caring for these animals and all that hair!

[eqtrainer]

Care for them just as you would any other mane and tail. Use a good detangler and conditioner, such as show sheen, and finger through the hair before you brush it with a comb or an actual brush. Fingering throug the hair loosens up knots and tangles so that you won't pull or rip out the hair with the brushing utensil.

One thing you do need to be aware of, make sure their fetlocks remain dry. Their long feathers allow for the shorter hairs to retain moisture, so because of this they might get greasy heel/scratches/scurf on their heels. Keep them dry and if they start to get kruddy, you can use tea tree oil to help the skin and fight off the growth. But, as long as you are aware, you shouldn't have any issues with them.

[lamoo]

I don't know how to care for feathers but I would think that you would just need to keep them tangle-free, clean, and dry.

As for the mane, here's what I do with thick long manes, go through this routine about three to four times a week and his mane will be great:
1) Drench the mane in a rich leave-in conditioner and thouroughly brush or comb so that all tangles are out.
2) Put the mane in about 5-6 large braids, and you can put the forelock in a braid also if you like. The braids will keep the mane tangle free when you turn him out, and will also keep his neck cooler in the hot weather.
3) Just redo the braids a couple times a week when they start looking like rats nests and re-apply conditioner when you can't feel it in the hair anymore. If you get a really rich leave-in conditioner you won't need to apply it more than once a week. I really like Herbal Essences and Garnier leave-ins, they are pretty cheap, they will last a while, and they work well.
4) Wash the mane at least once a month, more often if you have time. This will wash out the dirt and built-up conditioner that won't soak in and leave you with a fresh start. Also, the conditioner will be more effective on a clean mane.

I hope this helps. I'm caring for a little arabs mane, it's about two feet long and tangles in an instant, and this is the routine I use for her. Have fun with that beautiful hair! All the compliments you will receive on it will make all the hard work worth it!

[Carly]

I have clydes, and am lucky to board with a man who has dealt with them for many years.. as well as other draft breeds...
If I can be of any help PM me!.. I LOOOVE feathers, but hate keeping them clean, and whatnot.. I have learned some great tips and tricks...