Lubbock, Texas, farrier Burney Chapman and Longmont, Colo., veterinarian George Platt were instrumental in the reintroduction of the heartbar shoe to treat and manage laminitis after their joint presentation at the 1984 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention. Nearly 40 years later, the legacy of the heart-bar shoe continues to benefit horses. At the International Hoof-Care Summit, Vernon, Texas, farrier Blane Chapman looks back on the effectiveness of the heart-bar shoe and how advances in technology and farriery have revolutionized the way we shoe the laminitic horse. 

The 20th annual International Hoof-Care Summit will be held at the Duke Energy Convention Center and Hyatt Regency Cincinnati Hotel from January 24-27, 2023. To reserve your room at the conference discount of $145/night register here. A focused 4-day program covers the use dozens of field-tested footcare ideas gleaned from successful farriers, equine veterinarians and hoof researchers from around the world. Soak up valuable tips to improve your work, slash costs, improve efficiency and build profits. Gather the latest footcare ideas from the dozens of hours of exceptional learning at the Summit!

Unique from other conferences is the mix of general sessions, classrooms and face-to-face roundtables and face time with sponsors of the Hoof-Care Summit — all designed for maximum networking and the practical transfer of experience and knowledge. The lineup includes:

  • General Sessions — covering an abundance of proven no-tilling ideas and strategies. Among the national experts this year are Hans Castelijns, Dave Farley, Blane Chapman, and many more!
  • Face-to-face Roundtables — informal, moderated peer-to-peer discussions on specific hoof-care topics. Attendees should come with 5 questions to get answered in this proven format for sharing what works and doesn't.
  • Classrooms — in-depth presentation-style sessions convey practical, actionable ideas from experienced hoof-care experts on the most pressing needs.
  • This year's conference also hosts hands-on workshops, hours of trade show time, and networking opportunities! 

Title sponsors making the learning and networking opportunities possible include Mustad, Kawell USA, Castle Plastics, Life Data Labs, Kahn Forge, Emerald Lake, and Multieze Horseshoe. All 7 companies will exhibit during the 4-day educational event.