This article is a follow up to a print article, "Farrier Q&A: December 2016," which asked farriers, "What’s the best hoof-care tip you received this year?" The article can be read here.

A: Vern Dryden's article on how to shoe horses with synthetic footing and Renate Weller’s article on why equine bones break and tendons rupture. These articles open up a lot to talk about because more and more horse owners are using synthetic footing and the horses are having problems.

When you discuss it with the owners, they often are offended. It would be great to have more research on those things and how they influence the horses’ long-term soundness.

— Scott Chandler, Ocala, Fla.

A: Being an old business guy, I suggest that farriers take a moment to chat with their customers. It's amazing how a couple of minutes invested in conversation will help cement a good working relationship.

— Bill Kirkpatrick, Unionville, Pa.

A: If your horse loses shoes on the fronts, take a closer look at the hinds — the problem might be there. To get the horse in balance, you might have to modify the shoes (support, extension, etc.).

— Klaus Wolfram, Asturias, Spain

A: If you want to cure thrush, nothing works better than soap, water and a brush every day. 

— Chuck Milne, Kennedale, Texas

A: Keratex Hoof Hardener for my recently barefoot off-the-track Thouroughbred. She was able to work sound shortly after we started using it.

— Kalli Norton, Little Rock,…