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A horse stands in cross-ties after a hot shoe is applied to the bottom of the hoof. How should dangerous horses be handled and who is responsible? Readers weigh in. Photo by Jeff Cota

How Should Unsafe Horses be Handled?

Q: How should unsafe horses be handled? Farriers, equine veterinarians and horse owners share their thoughts in a recent American Farriers Journal social media post.

"All owners need to make sure their horses can safely have their feet worked on. Horsemanship is slowly being lost. It is so unfair to the horse and your service people."

— Christine Collins, Weatherford, Texas


"I think a lot of horse owners immediately assume their horse is being “bad” when in actuality it’s pain related (i.e. sore stifles) that is making it difficult for them to stand for the farrier. I give my older off-the-track Thoroughbred a couple grams of Bute before trimming and he is much better."

— Casey Dyer, Greenlawn, N.Y


"Remember the two Ts - training or tranquilizer."

— Stephanie Dyches, Blackville, S.C.


"Every owner is responsible for the manners of their horse. If the horse has an issue, the farrier should be told in advance so you can work together. My first horse had a ringbone in front and hock disease behind. Every farrier understood before picking up a foot that she could not stand for long periods on three legs. My current pair stand like rocks, as they should. Manners for the farrier and the vet matter."

— Susan Geisel, Hogansville, Ga.


"Your horse is your responsibility. A responsible horse owner needs to ensure that it can be safely handled by the vet, the farrier and anyone else who may be working with it. If you purchase a horse…

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