American Farriers Journal has released the speaker lineup for the 2019 International Hoof-Care Summit, and scheduled to present is distinguished farrier Mike Wildenstein.

Mike Wildenstein is among only four people in the world to have passed the distinguished Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers examination in the United Kingdom with an “Honors” designation, as well as one of only a handful of farriers in the U.S. who have passed the Fellowship exam. He spent 19 years as resident farrier and adjunct associate professor at Cornell University and continues to share his knowledge through clinics, consultations and various other forms of media.

During his general session at the 2019 International Hoof-Care Summit, “Defining Equine Limb Conformation,” Wildenstein will share his systematic approach for identifying deviations to help attendees understand why conformation is a crucial skill every farrier and veterinarian must grasp to be an effective practitioner.

Additionally, on Thursday, Jan. 24, Wildenstein will lead a Hoof-Care Classroom, “Evaluation Of Equine Conformation To Assist In Defining Hoof Care Needs.” In this lesson, Wildenstein will address how the equine hoof capsule is in constant flux and share how making various shoe modifications has helped him retain healthy hooves.

American Farriers Journal had the opportunity to talk with Wildenstein about his sessions at the 2019 Summit as well as his thoughts on the importance of continuing education at the upcoming Summit:

AFJ: What is one key takeaway you hope attendees will take away from your General Session presentation at the International Hoof-Care Summit, “Defining Equine Limb Conformation?”

Wildenstein: Learning to provide protection to a horse’s hoof is a lifelong experience. Knowledge of the conformation of the horse is vital to applying properly modified horse shoes.

AFJ: What International Hoof-Care Summit sessions are you personally most looking forward to attending while you are at the Summit?

Wildenstein: The luxury of having so many vendors under one roof is spectacular. Being able to handle, look at, and ask questions about hoof care products is invaluable. The first class attendance to the Summit is a great opportunity to meet and ask questions of the most knowledgeable persons associated with hoof care. I will take advantage of breaks and meal times to get to know more of these people. Every lecture is a learning opportunity and I will get to as many as I can.

AFJ: A main reason that many footcare professionals attend education events is to meet and network with others in the industry. How important do you think educational events like the International Hoof-Care Summit is for meeting and networking with other hoof-care professionals?

Wildenstein: The International Hoof-Care Summit is attended by knowledgeable persons from around the world. This event is the best opportunity that we have to acquaint ourselves to others who share the passion to improve the lives of horses.

AFJ: Why do you think it’s important that footcare professionals make time in their schedule to seek out continuing education at events like the International Hoof-Care Summit?

Wildenstein: By attending continuing education events I continue to be stimulated to improve and learn more. My goal is to leave a horse better off than when I arrived. As more is learned this goal is accomplished with greater understanding and efficiency.

AFJ: What would be your advice to somebody who is considering going to the Summit but hasn’t made up their mind yet?

Wildenstein: By attending the International Hoof-Care Summit you will be rewarded many times over as your understanding, knowledge, and list of friends in the hoof care business increases. Invest in your future by being progressive and knowledgeable in all that you do.

Learn more here about Mike Wildenstein's sessions and other sessions that will be featured during this 4-day learning and networking event.

A discounted registration rate of $394 is available through Jan. 2, 2019, offering a $35 discount off the full rate of $429. Registration can be made online or by calling (262) 432-0388 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT, Monday-Friday.

Educational Partners sponsoring the 16th annual International Hoof-Care Summit include: Life Data Labs, Equine Digital Support System, Castle Plastics, The Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO), Vettec and SmartPak.