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A Sound Horse – Regular Trimming

A Sound Horse- Regular Trimming

These days many people are stretching their budget and pinching  pennies. Priorities must be considered and unfortunately sometimes a visit from the farrier must be put farther down on the list, but let’s hope not too far, because in the end neglected horse feet usually end in a lame horse and a larger vet bill. Every horse is different and some are more self- sufficient than others. Most farriers have a fairly good idea about how often your horse should be trimmed and/or shod based on several factors. There are several reasons why it’s best to stick to a regular schedule as much as possible.

 As the hoof grows longer there is increased pressure on different structures within the limb, which may lead to permanent damage if left unattended. There are several problems which may develop due to a long hoof, which may include bowed tendons, quarter cracks and navicular syndrome, to name a very few.

Another point to consider is exaggerated affects of poor conformation. A turned out limb will only become more turned out, as the hoof grows longer. A farrier can oftentimes greatly minimize the negative effects of poor conformation by keeping the hoof level through trimming and/or supported by a shoe. However, once the hoof grows too long, a shoe becomes more of a detriment than an aid as the shoe prevents the hoof from wearing off naturally, once again reiterating the need for a regular schedule. It’s not hard to imagine in the photo below how long toes would greatly perpetuate an already bad conformation.

 Let’s say you have a horse perfectly conformed and made in the image of what God intended a perfect horse to be. Even then, at some point in his life, he may step on a stone, creating a bruise, which may lead to an abscess. Oftentimes a farrier can spot the very beginnings of problem and nip it in the bud.  Unfortunately with horses, one problem often leads to another and it’s best to stop the process before it gets too far. Regular attention from a farrier is if nothing else, preventative medicine and some of them are good listeners, which may save you a trip to the therapist.

Regular farrier appointments are more important if your horse:

• Has shoes on
• Has poor conformation
• Has reoccurring lameness issues such as laminitis
• Is under 2 years
• Is pregnant
• Competes regularly

Tags: bowed tendons, farrier, navicular syndrome, poor conformation, quarter cracks, regular trimming, sound horse