When it comes to shoeing and Farrier talks one of the least understood topics is the discussion of hoof balance. Ask half dozen different Farriers the meaning of hoof balance and you’re likely to have half dozen different answers. While hoof balance is so misunderstood it’s also most crucial to avoiding permanent lameness to horses. Put those two ingredients together and you have a recipe for disaster. Until hoof balance is completely understood there’s a 98% chance a horse will remain at serious risk. Let’s discuss balance and reduce the risk.
True hoof balance is not simple; it’s a combination of many different principles and applications. Balance involves bone angles, loads, support, and alignment of joints, shoe placement, foot length and direction and more. All these areas need to be put together like a puzzle in the proper proportions and amounts before optimum performance can be achieved.
Sometimes talking about what hoof balance is “Not” is easier than talking about what it is and while doing so you can recognize when you or your horse are in danger. Here’s a simple list.
1. A long toe stretching forward too far is out of balance. When the toe of the hoof wall progresses forward it pulls the heels forward with it.
2. A result of heels being pulled forward are contracted heels (when the bulbs of the foot become progressively narrow).
3. Too high or too low heel is out of balance.
4. Pigeon toes or toed out are out of balance.
5. Uneven hoof wall where the medial side of the hoof is either shorter or longer than the lateral side is out of balance.
6. Not enough hoof wall in line with the break over point is out of balance.
Many times there will be a combination of all the above and this is a real problem. Horses in this condition are being seriously compromised. Where it is easy to identify potential problems correction is all together another story. Correction is a very complex combination of the most advanced elements of shoeing. And if we look at the very first paragraph of this article you will realize most Farriers just don’t know how to place a horse into optimum performance and minimum risk of lameness. This is sad but true.
Horses become lame due to one or a combination of any of the above issues pointed out on the list. Sometimes permanently lame.
The purpose of this article is to increase your awareness of the importance of correct shoeing practice and to empower you to take action to control the risk. This article will also point you to a method of horseshoeing that has a 16 year 100% track record – “Not One Single Lame Horse”. You can get your hot little hands on this method by clicking the link below in the author bio. Your horse will love you for it.
Author Bio: John Silveira, Farrier, Aikido practitioner, spiritualist, born and raised in San Mateo California the bay area. For information on his shoeing method and the 100% track record just go to http://Care4Horses.com and leave contact information.
thank you and remember to Care4Horses
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Tags: equestrian, Farrier, foot, hat, hoof, horses, mane, riding, saddle, shoeing, shoes, sick, stirrup, tail, western
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