Dorsal hoof wall distortion — defined here as the deviation of the dorsal hoof wall from a straight line — can be an important indicator of overall hoof health and dorsopalmar hoof balance.

The arrival of horseshoe glues and hoof-repair materials more than 30 years ago revolutionized the centuries-old practice of farriery for shoers who dared take a chance on the materials. Adhesives replaced nails on many thin-walled or diseased hooves, and epoxy putties, as they were sometimes called, made rebuilding a foot possible in ways never before imagined.

During last winter’s 4th International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, two veteran farriers tackled a few of the most frequently asked questions about the footcare industry. This unrehearsed, fast-paced session sparked a number of highly interesting views for attendees.