Technological advances and the creative adaptation of synthetic materials that were originally designed for other purposes have transformed therapeutic hoof care

The farrier industry recognizes methyl methacrylate (MMA) as an acrylic adhesive and impression material as a sole pack. Yet, MMA is used to manufacture Plexiglass, a modifier for PVC and cement for hip and knee replacements. Impression material is used by dentists for partial and fixed dentures. Whether rebuilding a cracked hoof capsule, hoof avulsion or helping a horse through a laminitic event, these and other synthetic materials go hand-in-hand with corrective farriery.

During a presentation at the 20th annual International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio, Simon Moore discusses how he uses synthetic materials in his hoof-care practice. The Cornwall, England, farrier identifies keys to ensuring the successful use of synthetic materials in therapeutic cases.

Assessing the Horse

Before jumping into a corrective case, an evaluation must be completed and keep the basics of farriery at the forefront.

“It’s crucial to assess the problem correctly, and then we have to trim the hoof correctly,” he says. “There is no point in…