by M E Skeel

Created on: July 16, 2011   Last Updated: July 18, 2011

A horse's natural state is to be unshod. Horses ran barefooted for millions of years before humans tamed them. The difference then was that wild horses had no loads to carry and no pavement or unnaturally hard surfaces on which to walk or run. Horses are naturally adapted to life on grasslands, which are relatively soft and cushioned. However, foot problems were probably common enough in the days before domestication. Horse hooves grow in order to replace normal wear and tear. With no one to trim their feet, horses' hooves must have splayed and cracked as much then as they do now, if the horse is not cared for. Hoof problems probably were a contributing factor in the early deaths of many horses to predators, which target lame animals in a herd.

In effect, horses traded their freedom when domesticated for safety from predators. Humans have largely eliminated the danger of large predators like lions and tigers. Instead of being taken by a lion when it goes lame, horses either suffer, or are treated, or are put down. So it is important to look after an unshod horse's feet, especially if it is being ridden. A horse turned out to graze will still need its feet monitored and cared for but they will not be subjected to the extra loading of saddle and rider. If you are going to ride the horse a lot, especially on paved roads or in competitions, then it should be shod. If you are only riding the horse occasionally or for gentle pleasure rides across paddocks and meadows, then leaving the horse unshod is definitely cheaper than regular shoeing. All these factors must be considered when deciding whether to shoe a horse or not. If you want to ride in competitions but the cost of regular shoeing is too expensive for you, then you must really consider whether you can afford this sport.

Most people do not shoe their own horses. They get a specialist, a farrier, to do the job. This same person can help you look after the feet of an unshod horse. Even if you wish to learn to do the job yourself, it is a good idea to get an experienced trimmer in the first time and then at least a couple of times a year. Watch their techniques and learn from them. Check out the equipment they use. Then spend time handling your horse's feet. Get the horse used to you picking up their feet and examining them. Make it a pleasant experience for you both. Talk to the horse,

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>