Page 202 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

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Figure 6.6 Broken hoof wall

Unshod horses and youngsters still require trimming every 4–6 weeks. This allows any

potential problems to be dealt with promptly.

Assessment of foot balance

• The farrier will assess the horse in motion and standing square. He will observe:

• the horse’s conformation and action

• how the hoof contacts the ground

• any abnormal wear on the shoes
• whether there are any signs of lameness

• the shape and balance of the hoof including the:

– hoof-pastern axis and balance between the front and back of the foot
(dorsopalmar balance)