Hoof Anatomy & Physiology

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Equine Skeletal System

As you admire a horse, you take in his physique, his muscle tone, and the sheen of his coat. But underlying these essential outer parts is the structure that forms the scaffold to which all soft tissues attach: the equine skeleton.

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Barefoot vs. Shod

This point/counterpoint discusses the controversial issue of whether horses need to wear shoes. Back in 2002, Tufts University hosted a seminar for farriers and veterinarians to review the barefoot hoof care methods devise

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Inside the Laminitic Foot

Learn how equine podiatrists assess, treat, and monitor laminitis. Laminitis is a terrifying mystery to many horse owners, in part because in the early stages a horse with tremendous damage can look and act much like a mil

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Study: Farrier Selection Impacts More Than Hoof Shape

Choice of farrier might have a significant influence not only on the shape of a horse’s hoof, but its soundness and athletic ability, according to research carried out by veterinarians in Switzerland. Forty dressage and show jumping horses, divided

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The Quest to Conquer Laminitis

“Owners and trainers worldwide have the feeling that every veterinarian and every farrier have years of experience and vast knowledge about laminitis and podiatry (foot care). Unfortunately, this is not the case,” said Ric Redden, DVM, founder of

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Function of the Palmar Foot

Several lameness problems can exist in the rear (palmar) half of a horse’s foot; most bear the very general title of “heel pain.” The real problem is that without very careful diagnosis, lameness in this general area might be attributed to the

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Correcting Shelly Feet

Shelly, crumbly feet can be a challenge for horses and their owners. The feet break down too readily if the horse is barefoot, and they are unable to hold nails if he’s shod. In this article we’ll look at several causes and potential treatments for

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Hoof Structure and Foot Facts (Book Excerpt)

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.

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Anatomy and Physiology Part 5: The Equine Foot

The equine lexicon is filled with clich?s about the equine foot. Most horse owners have heard them all. “No foot, no horse…The foot is the horse’s foundation…For want of a shoe…” The list goes on. Without sound feet, a horse can’t move

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