The hoof is a highly flexible and adaptable structure, not rigid. While barefoot, hoof movement undergoes a 3-dimensional self-reversing deformation. This is the “hoof mechanism” that functions best with a healthy hoof and, in turn, improves hoof health.

Dr. Bart Halsberghe of Belgium-based Global Equine Health Consulting explores the benefits of the split-shoe approach on common hoof problems.

You’ll Learn: How the application provides the protection of a horseshoe while offering the benefits afforded when barefoot."

2026 International Hoof-Care Summit

A focused 4-day program covers dozens of field-tested footcare ideas from successful farriers, equine veterinarians and hoof researchers worldwide. Discover proven tips to improve your work, cut costs, boost efficiency and grow profits — all through the Summit’s unmatched learning opportunities.

View the Full Speaker Agenda & Topics

What makes this event unique is its dynamic mix of general sessions, classrooms, roundtables, and global networking with hoof-care professionals. Your 4-day registration also includes access to 3 exclusive sessions at the world’s largest hoof-care products trade show.

  • 7 General Sessions — packed with proven hoof-care strategies from experts like Hans Castelijns, Dave Farley, Blane Chapman, and more.
  • 32 Face-to-Face Roundtables — interactive peer discussions where attendees bring real-world questions and exchange practical insights.
  • 12 Classrooms — hands-on, presentation-style learning for today’s top hoof-care challenges.
  • Plus, 3 wet labs, over 9 hours of trade show time, and unlimited networking opportunities with farriers and veterinarians from across the globe.

Learn more, register, and book your hotel at IHCS2026.com.

Educational Partners

Gold Level – Glue-U Adhesives, Zoetis, EasyCare, Mustad, Platinum Performance, American Farriers Journal
Silver Level – SmartEquine
Bronze Level – Purcell Farrier Supply / MFC Tools, HoofMD, Equine Care, Anvil Brand, Breed Improvement Services, Inc.

Dr. Bart Halsberghe, a Belgium native and lifelong horseman, is a veterinarian specializing in equine sports medicine and rehabilitation. A 2003 graduate of the University of Ghent, he has worked internationally with thoroughbreds, trotters, sport horses, and quarter horses. In 2018, he founded Global Equine Veterinary Consulting, providing worldwide services in sports medicine, lameness, imaging, and rehabilitation.

He is double board-certified in Equine Practice and Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, with additional certifications in acupuncture, spinal therapy, and equine locomotor pathology. Passionate about advancing care for equine athletes, Dr. Halsberghe is pioneering “equine sports physiatry,” an integrated approach focused on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation to optimize performance and well-being.

Outside of his work, he enjoys time with his wife and two daughters.