Just the Bare Facts
by Kate Romanenko
Did you know that???
Horses do not need shoes, they are already wearing them.
Hooves provide traction. Hooves provide circulation. The hoof capsule (the outside surface of the hoof) provides protection from the external elements. Shock is absorbed through the natural function of the hoof. The barefoot hoof has a suction cup action on slippery surfaces. A natural barefoot trim can eliminate cracks, splits, thrush founder, navicular and many other hoof problems. A well balanced barefoot trim will give your horses' hooves maximum blood flow to grow the healthy hooves he needs. Remember all horses can go barefoot providing they live in their natural environment.
What exactly is the barefoot trim anyway? Well, a trim is a trim, right? I guess. If you feel like a haircut is a haircut. Do all carpenters build alike? Not exactly. Just take the same tools, put them in different hands, the results will vary.
I would describe a barefoot trim as a trim that allows a hoof to function properly. This means the hoof should be free of cracks and splits. There should be no thrush or bacteria present. The hoof wall should be fairly smooth and healthy, showing no rings, bruises or discoloured horn. The horse's heels and bulbs should be both hitting the ground on first contact. There should be no contracted heels or toe first landing. A strong, healthy hoof should allow the horse to walk comfortably on all types of terrain. These are the characteristics of hooves on a barefoot trimming program. If this does not describe your horse, you are definitely in need of a barefoot trimming professional. All horses can go barefoot, but not all owners can!
Now in some cases, it may take awhile for the horse to grow this type of trouble free hoof. Years of shoeing and bad hoof care result in weak, unhealthy hooves. Given the time and correct environmental elements, your horse can grow great feet.
The barefoot movement is slowly growing thanks to the positive results that have been seen over and over again. Horses suffering from navicular and founder have been completely healed and are being ridden again. Once we truly understand the hoof, what it's made of and how it works, many are leaving traditional shoeing methods and pain-killing drugs behind.
Horses are wondrful animals. We have all heard the old saying 'no hoof, no horse'. It is our duty to do everything we can to keep these magnificent animals healthy and happy. Our horses expect us to know what they need. If you are experienceing hoof problems, and have tried everything, perhaps it is time to learn about the natural barefoot trim.
Remember all trims are not alike. I hate when I hear "I had my horse barefoot, but his feet broke up and he was sore on the gravel so he needed shoes." This situation can be corrected by a natural trimmer.
When look for a trimmer always ask for references. Find out where your trimmer received his/her education. The quality of work you receive will show in the quailty of the hoof growth, not to mention how your horse will move!
Kate Romanenko and more about her work can be found by visiting www.natureshoofcare.com
