Editor’s Note: This is an excerpt from Understanding Equine Hoof Care by Heather Smith Thomas.

Knowing the anatomy and function of the foot can help you take better care of a horse’s feet–and do a better job of trimming or shoeing if you do that yourself. A working knowledge of the foot also enables you to select animals with the most desirable structure. You want a horse that is more apt to stay sound through a long life of hard work.

The old saying, “No hoof, no horse” is very true, especially as it pertains to the horse’s working ability and soundness.  The horse is an athlete; we use him for a variety of athletic purposes — racing, jumping, chasing cattle, pulling carts.  The health and soundness of his feet are of vital importance.  Another old saying is that a horse is as old as his feet and legs.  If they are not sound and healthy, he cannot be used for much.

It has also been said that a horse’s feet and disposition both deteriorate when he is not used. His feet — and his mental and social nature — evolved with continual activity. Therefore, regular exercise is crucial. Because the horse is a creature of movement, he is healthiest and happiest when he has room to roam, grazing on the go