Steve Kraus says a horse’s conformation problems can have a serious impact on footcare problems. The veteran farrier from Trumansburg, N.Y., told attendees at the recent American Farrier’s Association convention that breeding for color, show ring quality, performance ability and factors other than feet and legs have led to many of today’s conformation concerns.

Shoeing allows farriers to provide five benefits to horses: protection, traction, correction, therapeutic and performance. Most horses today are used for performance and pleasure. The duties that owners ask of their horses are tough and can be physically hard on the animals. With special shoes, horses are able to perform amazing moves with less stress to the hoof and all structures supported by it.