Legs on or legs off...?!

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gingerspice

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I'm about to clip my hunter (late yes, but had puss in foot issues!) and have always clipped a traditional full clip, leaving a saddle patch and legs on.

My neighbour kindly lent me a stable whilst mine was being built and I noted that she clipped all four legs off. Just for the first clip of the season, then left them on, but she oils up before days hunting and swears by it for ease of removing mud and preventing mud fever.

SO...
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...!

What are everyone's views, should I clip legs off this time or not? Do people oil before going hunting (muddy country!) and what with and does it work?
The end of our season covers chalky, flinty ground which is where I live, so would leaving legs on prevent flint cuts? Although all I've seen are on clipped legs.

So many questions, but really appreciate people's views.
Thanks
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After my hunter got sores, mud and tiny cuts which went unseen and then turned out worse than they should have done... I now clip my legs off.
Its easier to wash the legs off, administer to wounds. Keep a close eye on legs which are prone to mud fever etc.
I keep the legs oiled with veggie oil which gives a protective barrier when turned out. The skin is kept soft so no cracking (just like adding moisturiser to your own hands).
Before hunting I would add a good thick layer of barrier cream also.
 
We never ever clip legs off our hunters, they need the hair for protection and to act as a natural drain to keep water out of the heels. Putting oil or vasaline on the legs is a waste of time the first muddy field you go thro it wears off. When we get home we wash bodies in hot water and legs in cold, then towel dry the heels and them put baby powder and sulphur in the heels and then bandage We have never had mud fever problems and we hunt thro very deep holding muddy plough.
 
I think its a personal preference thing, if you leave the legs on, just make sure that you clean them thoroughly afterwards and keep your eyes open for any cuts, sores etc.
I agree with steeleydan about needing the hair for protection, I mean its not metal armour against everything that comes flying at hunters legs, but it does play a role!
good luck, and hope your horses legs stay in one piece! :-)
 
the last time i left my mares legs on - she got mud fever. now i clip them out (atleast by the 2nd clip, 1st clip its usually dry enough to keep them on) and shes never had mud fever since. i prefer off as easier to see whats going on, clean and to dry.
never heard the veg oil tip, thats a great one will try it!
 
Ummm, is tricky one!
Have always left legs on but have been interested with views either way, clipping time is tomorrow so will think it over tonight!
Thanks everyone.
 
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