Barefoot Riding

[Adel]

I would like some advice on how to care for my horse's hooves if I decide on barefoot riding. Also some opinions on whether it is good practice or not. Thanks.

[Willem vd Mescht]

All four the horses I have here are barefoot. Personally I wouldn't shoe a horse unless it is absolutely necessary. Generally thoroughbred horses have week feet and they often need shoes to protect their feet, but since you are planning on getting a boerperd, I'm sure having him barefoot won't be a problem.

In fact from articles and things I've read, I actually believe that it is healthier for a horse to be barefoot. When the horse put his foot down the foot expand and when he lift his foot again it contract. This cause a pumping action that assist the hart in pumping the blood.

I also heard that shoes tend to pinch the feet, causing them to go numb, so that the horse don't feel pain when stepping on stones, etc. Not sure if this is true, but it sounds plausible.

As for care, as long as you still get the farrier out 6 to 8 weeks to trim the feet, all should be well. I would not suggest that you trim them yourself, since a farrier look at aspects like balancing the foot and he'll also be able to tell you if barefoot is actually causing a problem.

[Adel]

Thanks for your reply. I am getting 2 boerperd mares tomorrow! I am suppose to choose one, but I think I'll keep both! Will see how the barefoot riding goes and I'll definitely get the farrier in every two months. Cheers.a.

[Presence]

It probably depends if the horses are use to having shoes? I'll ask the farrier what he thinks and then work from there!

[Lila]

I bought a cross breed a few months ago, and he was barefoot at the time, and his hooves were in a terrible condition. He obviously hadn't been near a farrier in a long time.  The farrier trimmed the hooves and put front shoes on, with the comment that as soon as the condition of the hooves improved, the horse could go barefoot again.  I am patiently waiting for that day.  I reckon about three more shoeing sessions and he will be able to go barefoot again.

A month ago I got a TB (off he track) and because I am not going to work him for a few months, the farrier suggested to leave himbarefoot as well.  His hooves are in a very good condition, I am giving supplements and a lot of attention to the hooves in the hope of keeping him barefoot.