[Seahorseys]

Can someone explain to me in detail what happens when a horse's front feet are left too long? (I recently had an Equine Chiropractor target this as a primary problem in some of my mare's shoulder tension issues. Problem is, she had just had her feet done the week before the chiro pointed this out. In addition, she gets her hooves trimmed on a 6-8 week schedule.)


I was given the name of a farrier that specializes in examining the horse's confirmation and trimming based on that and other comprehensive factors. Has anyone noticed any differences in a "barefoot specialist" v.s. a all around "common" farrier? (I like my farrier. I just don't have the skills necessary to truly assess that he has done a proper job that contributes to and compliments her training and movement.)


This "barefoot specialist" charges over double what I currently pay now for farrier services. Is it worth it?

 

[Seahorseys]

Well, right after I posted this thread, he called and came out to trim Fri. I really liked him, and he was extremely knowledgeable about his trade. I found out he is not a barefoot specialist perse, but he has over 20 years of experience and is an active member in many organizations that seek to provide continuing education for farriers, as well as improve the horse's well-being from a holistic perspective. I live in Connecticut, and he trims for rich and famous people in fairfield county, which is full of tres chic people. (Not that it matters much, but his stories were fun to listen to) He drew me diagrams and took measurements and it was all very technical, lol. He was the first farrier that asked to see her move before he touched her feet, lol. He actually spent about 10 minutes just watching how she grazed and acted in the field, something about which hoof she puts out in front of her and which hooves sustain most of the balancing chores. I will post pictures, as the difference was instantly noticeable. Getting her to stand square is a difficult feat, but at the end of the trim it seemed like she was doing it more naturally.

He said a big part of her probably was that she has great feet but that her heels grow fast . I guess most farriers leave the heel alone? He said this creates a contracted hoof and unbalances the horse, and actually puts pressure on the navicular bone? He guided me towards some pretty good books that allow the lay person get a better feel for how things should be done. I also appreciate that he took notes on her.

Downside is I paid 100.00. For a trim. Oh well, in 6 weeks he said it would only be 80.00. 20.00 for consultation and corrective work? I'll have the pics up soon.