Hoof Care and the Farrier: Daily Checks, Shoes and Trims

The Daily Hoof Check

1. Pick out each foot, working from heel to toe so the pick never points toward the soft frog.
2. Look: stones, nails or anything stuck in the sole; cracks in the wall; a shoe that has moved or has raised nails (clenches).
3. Smell: a strong, unpleasant smell from the grooves beside the frog is worth mentioning to your farrier.
4. Feel: run a hand over the hoof wall and pastern. Learn what normal warmth feels like on your horse, so you notice a change.

If your horse is lame, a foot is hot, or something is stuck in it, call your vet. Don't pull out a nail or sharp object that has gone deep into the sole unless your vet tells you to, because they may want to see where it went.

How Often Does the Farrier Come?

Hooves grow all the time, so they need regular trimming, shod or not. Most horses need a visit every 4 to 8 weeks, and shod horses often every 4 to 6 weeks, even if the shoes aren't worn out. RSPCA Australia suggests trimming barefoot horses about every 3 to 4 weeks, and no more than 6. Growth changes with the season, diet and work, so your farrier will set the interval for your horse.

Book the next visit before the farrier leaves, and keep a note of the dates.

Shod or Barefoot?

Many horses and ponies live and work barefoot, especially on soft ground and with lighter work. Shoes protect feet from wear on hard or stony ground and can help some horses' comfort and grip. Neither is right for every horse. Talk to your farrier, and your vet if your horse has had foot problems.

Hoof boots are a halfway house: strap-on protection for riding a barefoot horse over rough ground, or for getting a horse that has lost a shoe to the stable.

Lost or Loose Shoes

• Don't ride a horse that has lost a shoe or has one loose, twisted or with nails sticking out.
• Call your farrier and keep the horse on soft ground, or fit a hoof boot, until they come.
• Look for the lost shoe in the field: nails left in grass are a hazard.
• If a shoe has twisted so a nail could press into the foot, call your farrier or vet urgently.

Ground, Diet and Healthy Feet

Hooves do best on a mix of ground that is neither soaking wet nor rock hard. A dry standing area and clean bedding help in wet winters. Diet matters too: weight gain on rich grass raises the risk of laminitis, so ask your vet about grazing if your horse is a good-doer. See grazing and pasture management.

Hoof dressings, foot treatments and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. Your farrier can advise on day-to-day hoof care.