Fundamental Horseshoeing Principles

Horses are shod for four basic reasons 1) protection of the core anatomical structures within the foot, 2) enhancement of performance, which often results in variations in style but not in principles 3) health and safetey of both horse and rider, which often involves compromises in the biomechanical principles by adding additional traction and 4) the amelioration of pathology or correction of conformational defects likley to cause harm.

We’ve re edited this, we believe, important video series on the basic principles of horseshoeing. The series, originally filmed and directed by Alex Ridgeway and Motion Horse in 2020, covers the static and dynamic assessment process, foot trimming protocols, shoe selection criteria and the application and finishing of the shoeing processes including the theoretical and practical considerations accounted for during the decision making.

This series, we believe is of particular value to all those with an interest in the well being of the equine foot, gives a valuable insight into the numerous factors taken into account by the farrier in the formulation of a viable and sustainable basic shoeing plan irrespective of work regime and management criteria. We do not pass judgement on particular shoeing styles, prefering to leave those discussions between client anf professional farrier and note that style is often dictated by work, enviroment and the fourth dimension of time (the shoeing cycle).

Follow this link  to watch the Series.