Due to the constant pounding in training and racing, Susan Stover says, many Thoroughbreds end up with microscopic bone damage as the injured horse swaps damaged tissue for new tissue. However, the University of California veterinary researcher at Davis, Calif., found that more than 90 percent of tissue sampled from racehorses that had died or were euthanized after leg fractures had pre-existing bone damage.

During last winter’s 4th annual International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, a pair of veteran farriers tackled two dozen of the most frequently asked questions about the footcare industry. This totally unrehearsed, fast-paced session sparked a number of highly interesting views for attendees to evaluate in their own footcare operations.

While Thoroughbred trainers are unhappy with the ban on high toe grabs at California racetracks, there’s scientific research to back up claims that high toe grabs can result in serious injuries.

This exclusive series of American Farriers Journal reviews will help you select the latest videos and DVDs on shoeing techniques, hoof-care ideas and new products.

Changes in the makeup of the board of directors and a refinement in the officer structure were major accomplishments made by the American Farrier’s Association during its recent convention in Albuquerque, N.M.