We at American Farriers Journal often emphasize the importance of continuing your hoof-care education by attending clinics and conferences or by spending time with others in the field.

I ran into some good examples recently on my own road trips. The American Association of Equine Practitioners Focus On The Foot and Practice Management Seminar drew an enthusiastic audience of equine veterinarians and farriers to Columbus, Ohio, in early July. Here are some tips offered by various presenters during the event, as well as a couple of other pieces of advice I’ve picked up this summer.

Getting Old Is Hard On Equine Athletes, Too

“Great equine athletes can perform despite bad feet, but as they get older, they tend to have more problems and bad feet affect their performance. To continue performing at a high level, they’re going to need better hoof care.”

— Kent Carter, DVM, Texas A&M University

Thin Hoof Walls Becoming Bigger Problem

“Thin hoof walls are becoming a major problem in the Thoroughbred world because the racetracks are getting harder and harder. Year by year, hoof walls seem to keep getting thinner. Standardbreds are going this way as well.”

— Ian McKinlay, South Amboy, N.J.

Taping On A Temporary Pad

“Impression material can be used as a temporary pad for horses that are being kept in a stall. I’ll place it in the shoe and hold it in place with duct tape. It can be taken out when the horse goes to work. That way they’ll have…