Researchers in New Zealand used limb measurements obtained by CT examinations and limb dissections along with kinematic data obtained while trotting and cantering Thoroughbred racehorses over uneven ground to develop a model of how structures in the limbs respond to changes in the ground surface. They examined joint movements, muscle-tendon strains and ligament strains.
Researchers in Brazil measured calcium, copper and zinc levels in the hoof wall of 41 foals before weaning, with 28 of the same foals again tested after weaning.
The highly respected and beloved farrier Danny Ward passed away March 22, 2018, at the age of 73. Owner and operator of Danny Ward Horseshoeing School and a third-generation farrier, Ward was known for his superb farrier abilities and his commitment to education.
Lameness is a common reason horses present to equine practitioners. Federal researchers note that lameness has the highest annual incident density of all medical problems in horses — half of all horse operations with five or more horses experience one or more cases of lameness annually. Another report estimates lameness incidence at 7.5% to 13.7% annually.
When altering horses’ traction, farriers are applying lessons that they learned when they were but knee-high to a grasshopper. It’s called the Goldilocks principle.
Hoof care has undergone a multitude of changes ever since the ancients domesticated the horse and assumed its responsibility. However, the last 40 years are arguably one of the most significant periods in its growth than any other 4-decade span. This time witnessed dramatic changes in how farriers work with one another, and saw unrivaled technological advancements.
When a farrier has trimmed and shod hundreds of horses thousands of times, it stands to reason that he or she will have reached certain conclusions about how trimming a foot this way, or applying a shoe in that way will affect a horse.
The ongoing controversy over allowing traction devices on racetracks heated up recently as members of the California Horse Racing Board voted to start enforcing an earlier height restriction for front toe grabs.
Honoring dedication to the craft and life-long achievement of high quality work, the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame and the International Equine Veterinarians Hall Of Fame each inducted four dynamic professionals into their exclusive ranks during February.
In this episode, Mark Ellis, a Wisconsin farrier who learned the ropes with Renchin, recalls Red’s relationships with area veterinarians, his legacy and the second career as American Farriers Journal’s technical editor.
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Kawell develops and produces copper alloy horseshoes and inserts, giving horses the care that they need to fight issues associated with white line disease, seedy toe and thrush.
From the feed room to the tack room, SmartPak offers innovative solutions to help riders take great care of their horses. SmartPak was founded in 1999 with the introduction of the patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system. The revolutionary, daily dose SmartPaks are custom-made for your horse, individually labeled and sealed for freshness.