A healthy Barefoot horse is cheaper to run!

Barefoot and correctly trimmed horses are healthy, pain free and they are happy! However - it is not merely a case of taking the shoes off. Just as unbound chinese feet took time to heal - so the transition from shod to barefoot takes time. But unlike chinese feet - all horses can live without shoes.

Barefeet and correct trimming encourages correct hoof and leg alignment. It also encourages other body processes to function at their optimum.This reduces pain, swelling and encourages a happy nature in horse (just as in ourselves!). Bare feet encourages healthy hoof growth and long life in any horse. Many leg and back problems can be addressed with correct trimming and bare feet.

Horses should stand squarely, naturally!

Does your horse constantly rest the same leg? It may be that there is some discomfort in that foot.

(In the photo - Dusty, has obvious deformity in this hoof. There is separation of the hoof wall from about 1 cm below the coronet! She is trying to take the weight off her toe and her heel at the same time. Looks awkward, doesn't it?)

No more waiting for the farrier- you can learn to trim your horse when it suit you both!

Think of the convenience and the time and money saved! With the correct tools, trimming can become part of your daily or weekly grooming regime! Simply and easily. Once you get to know your horse's hooves - you can include trimming as part of your routine. Learn to identify and correct issues before they become problems!

What to expect.

Now that you have taken your horses shoes off, what next? You can expect your horse to:

- Seem lame! As horses get the feeling back into their feet, they FEEL everything - stones, accidental knocks, etc. (Yes, shoes make their feet numb!) They can have trouble riding in the places you are used to. (Good boots may help here). Many people are tempted to replace shoes at this stage. DONT GIVE UP! It is temporary and will improve. So be prepared to remove shoes when you are not in work - there will be no long rides for a while. Once again - DON'T GIVE UP!

- Need trimming fairly regularly. Even daily! To regain hoof shape and stop those cracks! Be prepared to do this, or you and your horse may go backwards..... Renewed blood flow encourages vigorous hoof growth.

- They may pee black urine after their first substantial barefoot trim, especially if their hoof action was very poor and there is a lot of toxic material to remove. This is the hoof action coming back and is perfectly normal. However, don't hesitate to call your healthcare professional, if you feel your horse is not coping well.

- Have warm feet! As the blood flow returns to normal, feet warm up. Even the soles can feel warm.

- Have abscesses. As the hoof returns to self regulating - lots of little infections can occur. These will cleanse themselves. You will notice them as you trim, but don't worry. Once they are open and draining, they are fine. Keep your horse moving and well fed, with free access to water.

- Have a happy face! Pain free horses have a zest for life, renewed energy and may have a change in personality. They may even work more calmly and better for you! Not having to concentrate on pain can improve their communication with you.

IT ALL TAKES TIME AND CARE.

**If you have a story of a horse who did not make the successful transition to barefeet - email me and I'll tell you what may have been done incorrectly.** redwalpark@hotmail.com