Education ABC Hoofcare bare foot trim clinics and natural hoof care for horses, donkeys, mules

EDUCATION

HEALTHY HOOVES

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Working TOGETHER on behalf of the HORSE

Horse Hoof Anatomy - Learn more about the hoof

Realizing the need for information about the hoof, ABC Hoof Care has participated in equine gatherings, and presented seminars.

We provide educational materials to understand the VITAL HOOF: bones, hoof capsules, dissected cadavers, photos, trimming information, and more....

The Horse Has Five Hearts

The heart of the horse is one of the smallest mammal hearts per body ratio on earth. It needs the circulatory system from each foot to stay healthy.

Each hoof is a biomechanical pump that supports circulation. The hoof will charge and disperse 1/4 cup of blood with each step, removing toxins and supporting the health of the hoof and the horse.

Knowing the importance of circulation in

the hoof will keep us on our toes to make sure the capsule is trimmed correctly.

THE HOOF IS THE MOST NEGLECTED MISUNDERSTOOD AND OWNER SHUNNED RESPONSIBILITY IN THEIR CARE AND YET IS THE # 1 SOURCE OF DEATH, INJURY AND EXPENSE ASSOCIATED WITH THEIR CARE.
NO HOOF NO HORSE
The hoof is a shock absorber and disperses energy throughout the hoof and up the leg. The fores are round shaped for concussion. The hinds are spade shaped for impulsion.
What is a healthy hoof?
Smooth, conical shaped The capsule shape comes from the conical shape of the coffin bone. the capsule should have a straight plane from the hairline to the ground.
Concavity in the Sole This is actually a mustang cadaver. Note the natural bevel around the capsules rim. aka "mustang role"
Healthy Frog, wide heels This is a hoof that never gets trimmed because it is self maintaining.

Trimming is Compensation for Domestication
HORSES LOSE WITH DOMESTICATION THEIR ABILITY TO CARE FOR THEIR TEETH, THEIR FEET AND THEIR DIET. AS GOOD STEWARDS WE NEED TO TRY AND PROVIDE THIS AS NATURAL AS POSSIBLE.

The sole is the 1st line of defense between the horse and the ground. Its proper management is crucial to soundness.

ASK YOURSELF Would you drink from that trough? Would you eat in your manure? Would you be lonely living like this? Would you wear something 2 sizes off? Would you want harsh mouth bits? Would you appreciate thoughtfulness?

Laminitis, the #2 Killer for Equine per DVM studies with colic being #1. We feel lameness is actually #1 because many deaths because of lameness are not accumulated.

Mapping and Trimming Hooves using the natural 1/3 2/3 balance to insure good joint movement.

Providing for a natural position to the leverages inside from a capsule that is out of balance with long toes or high heels

ABC Hoofcare,
6975 Sterling Creek Road
Jacksonville, OR 97530
541-899-1535

abchoofcare@msn.com

modified 1-6-06