Whether you’re looking for new footcare ideas, new products to improve the quality and efficiency of your work or seeking new ways to hold costs in line, you’ll want to make sure that you’re in Cincinnati next February for the 6th annual International Hoof-Care Summit.

From Feb. 3 to 6, 2009, 45 outstanding farriers, equine vets and hoof researchers from around the world will present 65 hours of non-stop hoof-care learning on more than 80 topics that are critical to the success of your hoof-care business.

An overwhelming number of attendees at last year’s Summit said they plan to return to Cincinnati next February for more footcare education. Here are 11 of their reasons.

1. “Jim Ferrie’s technique for hoof mapping brought up by one speaker has proven to be extremely useful. It helps visualize the internal structure of the hoof without getting radiographs.”

—Dan Marek, Blackstone, Ill.

2. “Chris Gregory’s anatomy discussions were fantastic. Red Renchin’s discussion on business practices pointed out ideas that many newcomers to this industry need to hear. Anyone can shoe or trim a horse properly and responsibly, but it’s the continuing education and valuable networking at the Summit that helps produce professional farriers.”

—Jason Hubbard, High Springs, Fla.

3. “I learned I don’t have to keep tossing out $100 to $200…