Hoof Care

The American Association of Professional Farriers (AAPF) was launched January 1 by ten well-known US and Canadian farriers, most of whom have been involved in governance and policy making in other farrier organizations. They see an opportunity to stimulate interest in continuing professional development for farriers by giving credentials that must eventually be maintained by attending farrier education events.

Read more: New Farriers Association Launched

Lack of heel support and shoes that are too small are widespread in all breeds and disciplines. But why? After all, what’s the big deal about fractions of an inch?

Read more: The Debate Over Heel Support in Horse Hoof Care

A free choice blend of calcium/phosphorus can help your horse balance out what [might be] missing from his feed. Also try mixing bentonite clay (montmorillonite or calcium pascolite) with distilled H2O into a mud thickness and packing the clean hooves with the mud. I place the hoof on a piece of brown paper bag and cut it out.

Read more: Holistic Tip: Improving Soft Hooves

Proper fit and hoof boot style can make or break your barefoot ride. Hoof boots are useful tools when your horse is transitioning out of shoes or being ridden barefoot on tricky terrain. Boots are not a substitute for healthy bare hooves, but they can provide protection, enhance performance, and increase comfort when we are placing demands on the hoof that cannot be met by barefoot alone. If a horse suffers from pain or hoof deformity then it is important to address the causes of the horse’s discomfort. Promoting proper structure restores hoof function so we may achieve optimum performance.

Read more: Boot Camp!