Hoof Care

Caring for your horse's hooves

Hoof care is an absolutely vital part of looking after a horse. Without it, a horse is left susceptible to crippling diseases and injuries including infections such as thrush, which are painful and can be expensive to treat.

As part of caring for a horse's hooves, owners should make sure they have a reliable farrier, or blacksmith, in their phone book. Even if they are not shod, a horse will still need to have their feet trimmed regularly to prevent them from over-growing or cracking.

Horse anatomy: The hoof

by Megan Worley

Anatomy of a Horse HoofThe horse hoof is one of the most important parts of the horse's body, taking all of the horses considerable weight and absorbing considerable shock when horses jump. Lameness o...More>
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How to choose a horse farrier

by LJ Sisler

When hiring a farrier, think of it in the same terms as you would when hiring a doctor. Basically, in most locations, finding a farrier comes through word of mouth from horse owner friends. Farr...More>
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Different types of horse hoof problems

by Darian Peters

There are a variety of potential hoof problems that a horse may be subjected to. In many cases this is down to some physical injury that they have picked up during their work or play. But there are al...More>
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Tips for improving your horses' hooves

by Rebecca K.

There is an old saying that goes, "No hoof, no horse." This plainly states the importance of good hoof care. A horse is unable to do any work or show if they're lame, or sore. You can also prevent cra...More>
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Hooves

Horse hoof care tips

by Terri Espinoza

Because of the horse’s size, hoof care is very important. An injury to a hoof or an infection that is left untreated can cripple a horse despite the strength of the large animal. The...More>
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How to inspect and clean a horse's hoof

by Naani M

Proper hoof care is perhaps the most overlooked duty for horse and pony owners, but is actually one of the most important. Horses spend the majority of their time on their hooves, and have to carry th...More>
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How to keep a hoof healthy

Use a hoof pick daily to remove stones and dirt.
Use a hard bristled brush to remove dust and dirt from the wall and sole of the hoof.
Use hoof oil to paint the wall of the hoof to help keep it healthy.
Always keep a first aid kit handy incase of injuries and infection to the hoof.
Have the horse's hooves checked every 6 - 8 weeks by a farrier or blacksmith.

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Quick facts about hoof care

A horse's hoof will keep growing until the horse is about 6 years old
A horse's hooves should be inspected by a farrier every 6 - 8 weeks
A horse does not have to wear shoes, only if they have hoof problems, work on hard ground, or are competing
Shoeing a horse is completely painless and feels no different to filing your nails
The hoof acts as a shock absorber helping to prevent leg injuries
Hooves are made from the same material that makes fingernails

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How to Care for a Horse's Hooves : Supplies Needed for Horse Hoof Care

Watch as an expert explains the supplies you will need to address horse hoof care in this free online video about horse health care. Expert: Kelli LaBar Bio: Kelli LaBar is a practicing aesthetician and makeup artist in Wilmington, NC Filmmaker: Reel Media LLC

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