Going barefoot refers to the practice of keeping horses without horseshoes, allowing them to walk and run on natural surfaces with their hooves unprotected by metal shoes. This practice is based on the idea that horses evolved to have hooves that are naturally suited to walking and running on a variety of surfaces, and that horseshoes can interfere with the hoof’s natural functions, such as the expanding of the hoof when it hits the ground, much like a human foot.
It’s important to note that not all horses are suitable for going barefoot, and that proper hoof care and maintenance is essential to ensure the horse remains healthy and comfortable. Working closely with a qualified farrier or barefoot trimmer is important to determine whether a horse is a good candidate for barefoot and to develop an appropriate trimming and maintenance schedule.
To start transitioning your horse to go barefoot, consult with your veterinarian and farrier first to make sure it’s a suitable option. Evaluate your horse’s hoof health and adjust their diet to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients for hoof health. Gradually reduce shoeing with your farrier and pay close attention to your horse’s comfort level during the transition. Monitor your horse’s hooves for signs of discomfort and make adjustments as needed. Consider using hoof boots or pads for added support and protection. Regular hoof care, including trimming and maintenance, is crucial for horses living without shoes. Be patient and understand that the transition process may take longer for some horses.
Assessing a horse’s overall body condition The body condition score (BCS) is a subjective evaluation method used to assess a horse’s overall body condition and fat coverage. The BCS system typically uses a scale of 1 to 9, with 1
Expert Advice: This article was written by Dr. Pedro Penha Garcia, a veterinarian with 10+ years of experience. What is an Equine Colic? A Colic is something no horse owner wants to face, but if you have horses, you’ll likely
Expert Advice: Kim Lina Pethahn, an independent feed consultant, wrote this article. Offering the Necessities & Avoiding Overdosages Whether your horse needs supplements at all depends on both the pre-existing conditions and the energy consumption of your horse. However, an
It is nothing new that horses are very agile animals. But did you know that a horse’s skeleton consists of 252 individual bones? This means that a horse has 46 more bones than a human. However, horses do not have
Are you over-rugging your horse out of concern? There are key factors you should keep in mind when using blankets for your horse during winter. During the winter season, most people automatically throw a rug on their horse, or so
Going barefoot refers to the practice of keeping horses without horseshoes, allowing them to walk and run on natural surfaces with their hooves unprotected by metal shoes. This practice is based on the idea that horses evolved to have hooves
