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Now that you are ready to move to the natural hoof, there are some things you need to be aware of before you start.
- This is the best way to treat your horse and his valuable hoofs.
- You will see results immediately, but keep in mind this is also a rehabilitation period
- Trimmings should be done every 4 weeks for the first six months, and may be increased
to every 5 after that.
- You need to commit for at least six months in order to see maximum results.
If your horse is in shoes, it is best to remove them as soon as possible.
- Yes, your horse's soles MAY be tender for a short period after the first couple of
trimmings. (You wear shoes, if I asked you to walk around without them you would be tender, too. Good news, this is only temporary. Results differ for each horse. My Thoroughbred went from shoes to natural trimming, and never skipped a beat)
- If your horse shows tenderness, boots are available (I lease Epic Plus Boots) and are
recommended for riding situations.
- The more your horse is in the pasture, running, and enjoying life, the better it is for his
hoofs.
If your horse is suffering from Founder or Navicular:
- Let's get those shoes off ASAP.
- Ask your vet about doing a two day on, one day off schedule of Bute, while and IF they
are tender. We all know the pros and cons of Bute, but it has been found that some other medicines used actually slow down the healing process. (I am NOT a VET, I can only suggest from readings on the subject. I will supply the articles for you to present to your Vet.)
- Remember your horse WILL be tender after the first couple of trimmings, but will show
improvement after each trim.
- I CANNOT promise you that each case will have a happy ending, but look at my the case
history. For most, you will be amazed at the positive results, but this will take time. (Usually less than a year, and you could be riding again as quickly as 6 months).
If your horse suffers from P3 rotation, laminitis, or thrush:
- Do not worry, they will be things of the past. Proper trimming will eliminate these
problems.
- For thrush and white line separation, it will be recommended that the hoof be soaked. ( I
also lease soaking boots.),
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