The one thing that keeps amazing me as a farrier is how resilient a horse's hooves can be. Horses given the right support and care can give the foot a fighting chance. Being a farrier we see many different feet. From feet that are strong and healthy to feet that are falling apart. What's amazing is watching those unhealthy weak feet become feet that are strong and rock crushing healthy. Those weak unhealthy feet don't just happen though. There are many factors that cause feet to become unhealthy. To make those feet healthy again it takes dedication from the farrier and most importantly the owner to make it successful.
Watching owners be involved in their horses care amaze me on how much it plays in healing their horse's feet. From the soaking of hooves with cleantrax, to the daily cleaning, changing of diets, and even daily routine to allow the horses to thrive. It makes my work as a farrier so much more successful in helping rehab their horses feet. So what's the key to healing the feet ....... the owner.
A lot of times when a new horsecare provider, in this instance the farrier, suggests changes and advice it's often taken with some resistance. Because as a farrier we can only recommend what needs to be done to help their feet improve. So all in all, it's the owner that holds the key to improving their horses hoof health.
So if you are an owner with a horse that has unhealthy feet be open to change and be an advocate for your horse. As an owner never stop asking questions and seeking answers. As an owner don't be afraid to learn and ask questions.
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