After California Chrome won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, members of the general media jumped on the idea that the horse's white hooves might be a detriment to his racing career. For many decades, some folks in the equine industry have maintained unpigmented hooves are more prone to cracking, tender footedness and weakness.
In an American Farriers Journal survey, farriers were asked how they deal with a situation when a horse becomes so difficult to work with that a sedative may be required.
The AFJ editors asked 19 Hall Of Famers to reveal one piece of advice that they would want to share with other farriers. Calling on their many years of experience as hoof-care professionals, this was no easy task as each of these farriers could share valuable ideas that could fill hundreds of pages in a book.
The following is a scenario being used by a full-time farrier. His name, town and state are not being provided in order to keep an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agent from knocking on his door in regard to this unusual hoof-care business arrangement.
As the grass starts to grow and turn green this spring, many of your footcare clients will be concerned about potential laminitis problems. While it's a legitimate concern, some data I've come across recently from Rutgers University researchers indicates there may be other laminitis issues than just lush grass.
Speaking to a group of equine veterinarians, noted horse trainer Buck Brannaman offered some solid advice farriers could use in dealing with owners and behavior concerns with their horses.
When it comes to helping farriers in identifying lameness issues, Susan Dyson offers some practical advice that she follows when taking a look at horses.
This article expands on the Pages 36 and 37 feature in the April 2014 issue of American Farriers Journal that dealt with how to "Boost Profits With Boots."
Seven out of 10 horses do not get a full serving of a fortified grain or complete feed, which may mean inadequate levels of key vitamins and minerals needed for hoof health
When recommending hoof supplements to clients, Jessica Normand says it's critical for farriers to stress the proper expectations for these products. The then SmartPak staffer told attendees at a How-To Clinic during the 2014 International Hoof-Care Summit that horse owners have to recognize that healthy hooves require regular, professional maintenance along with plenty of exercise and activity.
Since some owners often want a part-time protective device for their horses, hoof boots continue to grow in popularity. But who should provide the boots, fit and adjust them?
Greg Martin, CJF, of Boerne, Texas, takes the unique approach of marketing his hoof-care practice with a Christmas parade float in Boerne and Comfort, Texas. The award-winning float boasts a variety of surprising features.
Life Data Labs Inc. is a dedicated product manufacturer committed to producing premium quality animal nutrition and health products through continuous product improvement and new product development. First-class ingredients, fresh products, consistent high quality and scientifically proven effectiveness are the principal features of Life Data Labs animal health products. And that's why they've produced the #1 recommended hoof supplement by farriers for 12 consecutive years.
Kawell develops and produces copper alloy horseshoes and inserts, giving horses the care that they need to fight issues associated with white line disease, seedy toe and thrush.
From the feed room to the tack room, SmartPak offers innovative solutions to help riders take great care of their horses. SmartPak was founded in 1999 with the introduction of the patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system. The revolutionary, daily dose SmartPaks are custom-made for your horse, individually labeled and sealed for freshness.