Hoof Care

Before you assume your lame horse has an abscess, run through a few simple tests.

Each day brings another opportunity to help your horse grow better feet. Here’s a simple hoof building strategy you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.

If you find a shoe in the field, track down the horse it came from and do a quick assessment for any damage.

Thinking of switching from horseshoes to temporary hoof boots for on-trail hoof protection? Here's some expert information to get you started.

The latest in how and why the destructive disease laminitis develops and immediate and long-term treatment options

If winter weather or your competition schedule has you riding less, right now may be the perfect time to strengthen your horse's feet by pulling his shoes for a few months.

On a healthy foot, heel and toe grow from the coronary band to the ground at the same angle; when the angle of the heel is less than that of the toe (making it look flattened out), the heels are considered "underrun."

Pro rodeo vet Frank Santos explains what abscesses are an how to prevent them.

Do you know what all those lines, divots and discolorations in the soles of your horse's feet mean? Learn how to "read" his hooves.

How long should it take a hoof abscess to heal? Dr. Joyce Harman offers advice to a Standardbred gelding's owner in EquiSearch.com's Ask the Vet.

These essential tips on horse hoof health from our veterinary expert will help your horse stand on his own four feet.

Learn how to prepare so you get the most out of your farrier's visits both for you and your horse.

Researchers study the shock-absorbing capabilities of polyurethane horseshoes. By Christine Barakat for EQUUS magazine.

In some cases it's best to fit a horse with shoes fresh off a forge. By Laurie Bonner for EQUUS magazine.

Bruising in your horse's hoof can happen as a result of various situations. Learn more.

A growing contingent of hoof-care experts says yes. Here's what the natural-foot movement could mean for your horse.

What if, by feeling where and when your horse picks up his hooves and places them on the ground, you could better influence his body? Learn how to figure out when and where your horse is placing his hooves so riding in your saddle becomes more comfortable.

How can you make sure your horse farrier is doing a good job on your horse's hooves? Read our simple tips to learn about what your farrier does, and if he's doing it right.

Horses that may go eight weeks between trims in the winter may need a hoof trim every four to six weeks in the spring to keep the feet well balanced.

A healthy horse's hoof can withstand winter temperatures very well, but if your horse has hoof problems, the cold can take a toll. Your horse may begin to move more stiffly, even when he's not on frozen, uneven ground.

One Horse & Rider reader shares the story of how natural hoofcare put her horse, Smokey, back on his feet and back in his role as king of the herd.