As a tool in a farrier’s arsenal for addressing hoof-care issues, hospital plates are like fire extinguishers — they are seldom used, but you are glad to have them as an option when needed. Also like fire extinguishers, incorrect or ineffective application of hospital plates could lead to disastrous outcomes.

To no surprise, a recent AFJ survey showed that most farriers only utilize a hospital plate a few times a year. Even responding farriers working in clinical settings typically don’t exceed a dozen or so applications every year. Common usage includes addressing puncture wounds, severe abscesses and surgical aftercare, among others.

Using hospital plates may call upon some creativity as the farrier. In this article, two farriers share their ideas for hospital plates that they’ve adapted for certain circumstances. In addition, others share their quick insights on ways to use these plates that have proven to be successful for their equine footcare practices.