In his 30 years of working with adhesives, 20 of those with Vettec, Larkin Greene says there are things that must be considered before using adhesives. First, what are you trying to accomplish? You may be trying to glue-on, repair, correct, support the foot, or a combination of these and other reasons.

Second, are conditions appropriate for using adhesives? How will environmental factors like temperature extremes or wetness affect the outcome?

“Unfortunately, when poor conditions exist, people attempt to use adhesives because there are really not many other options remaining,” he says. “If you have frigid weather, for example, there is a lot more to consider, such as warming materials, surfaces and longer set times.”

Third, do you have familiarity with the materials to be used, and the skills to create the desired outcome? How will you gain the necessary skills without experimenting with client horses and risk looking unprofessional?

Greene addressed that last question during his lecture at the 2017 International Hoof-Care Summit. Unless using adhesives is a common method in a farrier practice, un-familiarity may lead to poor practices and unsuccessful results. This quick guidance by Greene will help build a knowledge base for better use and success when using adhesives.