As the world of horse care becomes more technical, clients expect more and more from farriers. Many farriers have begun using digital pictures and videos to document changes in a horse’s shoeing, lameness and performance. How do farriers educate their clients when it comes to these concerns? How will a farrier explain that the client’s horse is not sound? Will the client see or feel if the horse is lame? The relationship between farrier and client relies on open lines of communication and a tactful approach by the farrier.

The Ontrack software program was intended for just these purposes. Longtime farrier Scott Lampert designed the program as something he could use for referencing images and videos. Lampert now uses Ontrack to help educate his own eye as well as his clients’.

Visual Advantages

Using camera technology that is becoming less expensive over time, still pictures and videos taken by either the client or the farrier can be loaded into the program for review. Zoom features allow an up-close view of the foot upon landing, for example, while a slow-motion mode allows both client and farrier to see gait abnormalities that aren’t readily apparent in “real time.”

After the evaluation is complete, treatment can begin, whether it is a new shoe or a different trim, and these changes can be documented for later consultation. A report can be generated and printed or burned to a CD, including all video and voice records, which the client can view and listen to.

An…