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Articles by Heather Smith Thomas

How to Convince Clients that their Rehab Role is Vital

Tips to get owners to stick to the plan while their horse is recovering from injury
By Heather Smith Thomas posted on July 3, 2015 | Posted in Clients, Diseases, Lamenesses

The farrier, often with the help of a veterinarian, has treated a hoof problem and now it’s up to the horse owner to follow instructions for care during the rehabilitation. Sometimes it can be challenging to persuade the owner to be an active member of the team.


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Barefoot

Help Horse Owners Understand Climate Plays a Critical Role in Hoof Health

Ideal conditions can be created, even in less than ideal climates
By Heather Smith Thomas posted on April 1, 2015 | Posted in Education
Horses are kept in a wide variety of environments — indoors, outdoors, big pastures, small pens, every kind of footing imaginable — and climates, from the arid deserts of the Southwest to the rain forests of western Washington, humid tropical climates of Florida, or muddy springtime in Maine. The environment definitely impacts the health and structure of horses’ feet.
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Getting The Client’s Buy-In On Hoof Care

Farriers have various strategies to encourage horse owners to be involved in their horse’s footcare
By Heather Smith Thomas posted on January 1, 2015 | Posted in Clients
When the owner takes an active role in hoof care the farrier and, ultimately, the horse are the beneficiaries. However, it can be difficult to get that buy-in with novice horse owners because many of them are new to owning horses and inexperienced in their understanding of equine care and handling.
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Nutrition: A Piece Of The Footcare Puzzle

Researchers share how our understanding of nutrition contributes to keeping hooves healthy
By Heather Smith Thomas posted on December 1, 2014 | Posted in Anatomy
We know that proper nutrition is important for every function of living beings. In a general sense, horse people recognize this for equine hoof health. Research over the years regarding dietary needs of livestock and horses and its relation to hoof health have put science behind our observations.
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You and Your Horse's Feet

Understanding The Common Problems Of The Hoof And The Foot

Learning the basics can help novice horse owners get the help they need to head off minor issues before they become major
By Heather Smith Thomas posted on December 1, 2013 | Posted in Diseases, Lamenesses
Many hoof problems are caused by the environment the horses' feet are subjected to, or inadequate nutrition or genetics. Some horses inherit thin soles, small feet, or crooked legs. In most instances, horse owners can prevent serious problems with good care - and with the help of a farrier to correct small problems before they become large ones.
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Remembering Red Renchin with Mark Ellis: Part 3

Remembering Red Renchin with Mark Ellis: Part 3

In this episode, Mark Ellis, a Wisconsin farrier who learned the ropes with Renchin, recalls Red’s relationships with area veterinarians, his legacy and the second career as American Farriers Journal’s technical editor.

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Life Data Labs

Life Data Labs Inc

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.
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Kawell USA

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.
Smart Pak

SmartPak

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.
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