A Sound Trim
I hear this question all the time. Do horses NEED shoes? The short answer is, NO. Although shoes have their time & place, most horses are more than capable of being barefoot, sound, and able to perform their jobs.
A horse that isn't sound barefoot, isn't sound. But how can we "fix" that? Hoof rehab is a whole horse approach to true soundness.
​
Skilled trimming, whether barefoot or shod, requires an understanding of the structures and function of the natural hoof. It's not about what we can "take off" but more about what we can "leave on" the hoof. Helping the horse develop a strong hoof is my focus. Hooves are truly amazing intricate structures, designed to be adaptive & have an amazing ability to heal. How we support hoof health matters.
Most horses on my books are barefoot. I've successfully transitioned many out of shoes and into barefoot soundness. If you've tried barefoot in the past and it didn't work out, I encourage you to try again. There are many trim methods out there, not every trim is the same. I'm specifically skilled in trimming according to the needs of the barefoot horse.
​
For horses that need help transitioning or who can't go barefoot for one reason or another, I do offer glue on shoes. A nail free alternative to traditional shoes.
​
WHAT TRIM STYLE DO I USE?
I look up to many hoof care providers. Especially those not afraid to say we don't know it all & no "one way" is the "only way". I'm forever grateful to my incredible mentors whom took the time to pour into me. I also admire the work of Pete Ramey who is a pioneer and leader in the barefoot movement. The best judge of how well you trim- the horse.
​
What Else is involved?
Routine trimming is important. This should be done on a 4-6 week schedule. We shouldn't wait until the hoof is long and distorted before we trim it. Keeping the hoof at its optimal condition is ideal and best mimics the wild horse. Diet (low sugar/starch, forage based, added vit/minerals), environment, health & activity also play a big part in the natural hoof journey! This is a holistic- whole horse approach. I have educated myself in the overall needs for hoof health success and I love to share that with my clients!
See More of What I Do.
Follow me & see more of my work on Facebook! I share my case studies, progress pictures, hoof care philosophies, hoof care tips, hoof education, how to videos, diet suggestions, and more!!
