Why does a footcare solution succeed with one horse, but fail with another? The answer could be simple, but usually it is complex, considering the endless list of variables affecting the outcome. The horse, its job, environment and client all have a huge influence on the success of a farrier’s work. Then, of course, consider the practitioner. Does the farrier have the knowledge and skill set to appropriately apply the solution? Did the farrier follow the correct steps for application?

The solution itself must be evaluated. Is it an appropriate compromise for the horse and all of the considerations that it presents? Can the materials, when applied correctly, withstand the wear-and-tear presented by the horse until the farrier returns weeks later?

Repairing hoof wall cracks is an issue in which the success relies on using the correct material and competently applying them. Hoof wall cracks are common cases that Travis Burns sees as the resident farrier at the…