His Hoofs are getting BAD. They have Big chips in them. We think he might need to have shoes. The other horses don't have the problem. Could it be that he just have some sort of hoof problem? We have six other horses and they are just fine.

Horse Crazy,

-- Bri (Bodaciousshowhorse@myexcel.com), August 09, 2001

Answers

Some horses just have genitically crappy feet. Just like some people can grow long, strong fingernails and others can't. Shoes will help him but they may not be necessary. Trim him up fairly short, his hoof length from hairline to ground at the toe should be about 3 1/2 inches (give or take). Use the rasp and make sure you bevel (round) all the way around the outside edge of the hoof and really good at the toe area. Also file off any "hangnails" or chips that are hanging on. If you're using him alot and he gets ouchy from the trim for more than a week, call a farrier and have shoes put on. If you have questions, you can email me. teneniel_80@yahoo.com

-- Malinda in central WI (teneniel_80@yahoo.com), August 10, 2001.

Bri, this is by know way a flame towards you but I have noticed in the last day or so you have posted many horse related questions. Asking questions is not a bad thing but I have to wonder if you a young and just starting out? Do you have parents that are assisting you? I would strongly recommend doing a lot of searching on the net and visiting your local library, read all you can get a hold of. Subscribe to a couple horse magazines. I believe someone stated on your other post that it could be nutrition. What are you feeding. Do your horses see a farrier ever 6 weeks? What kind of riding do you do and what is the age/breed of the horse. Yes some horses need shoes. Are you willing to commit to the expense. If you have horse ?? you can email me and I will try to help the best of my ability. Where are you located?

-- tracy (murfette@stargate.net), August 10, 2001.

You have had some excellant advice here. However, your horse needs an at the scene, knowledgeable,farrier and responsible follow up care! I'm surprised you have't done this already!

-- Little Quacker (carouselxing@juno.com), August 11, 2001.