FARRIER TAKEAWAYS

• Traditional grip materials are not always necessary thanks to improved understanding of horse conformation, shoeing materials and footing.
• Some slipping during the horse’s stride is acceptable — it helps the horse’s body dissipate energy from the impact of stepping on the ground.
• Using grip devices when the horse will be used on pavement causes worse slippage.
• Any use of grip materials will cause the horse’s hooves to stay on the ground for a longer period of time for each step, which can cause interference from hind hooves if the effect is too severe.
• Grip devices can be beneficial to reduce injuries, but they can also exacerbate other types of injuries if not used properly.
• Studs should be applied appropriately on the hoof in relation to the horse’s conformation, used only when working, and the severity should be adjusted to suit the horse’s task.
• Always err on the side of using less traction rather than more.