Dealing with lameness and other foot diseases is part of being a farrier. A good farrier knows that foot diseases are often traced to unbalanced feet and can sometimes be prevented by properly balancing the foot. The latest book in the American Farriers Journal’s “Farrier Classics” takes a close look at a variety of footcare concerns. 

The Foot Of The Horse relies on the time-tested advice of farrier David Roberge who spent 45 years perfecting his shoeing system. 

Timeless Information

Originally published in 1894, this 304-page book is packed with explanations and actual experiences that Roberge encountered more than 100 years ago. It contains plenty of valuable information and insights that are still valuable for contending with many of today’s shoeing problems.

According to Roberge, the foot is the essential part of the horse. When the foot is of the proper size and proportion, it works to improve the tone and general condition of any animal. It’s just as important to know how to shoe a horse as it is to recognize an unhealthy or unproportioned hoof.

When handling footcare problems, Roberge lists many good reasons why every horseshoer should possess a creditable collection of healthy and diseased foot bones, tissues, tendons, ligaments and hooves. He maintains that they’re critical for gaining success. 

You’ll also find detailed advice in 18 general areas of shoeing and 424 specific items that relate to everyday farriery. 

One focus of the book is on the union of the hoof and pedal bone. Roberge believes…