Camp it Up! has a visit from the farrier; teaching the youth the importance of good hoof care.

Hoof care is one of the most important practices for maintaining a sound horse.

Hey kids!

I was trotting my way back through Amarillo and much to my dismay, I threw a shoe! As luck would have it, though, the farrier, Garry Smith, was at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame teaching the campers about sound hoof care. I just had to stop in for a fitting.

Smith, the farrier and my savior, informed the youngsters that hooves require a fair amount of attention from any horse owner for proper care, and also the attention of a farrier every four to six weeks. Hooves are like human fingernails; long extensions that can be trimmed painlessly. Horses are shod for added protection, ease of care, and to keep the hooves in good condition and free from wear until the next trim is required.

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Trimming helps keep the hooves in good condition as well as allowing the farrier to check for any problems that might develop. If your horse suddenly goes lame, there is a 99% chance that the problem is in the hoof. Stones can easily be lodged in the sole, or under s a shoe. So remember kids, it’s important to your horse that you pick out his or her hooves every time you ride!

Trevor Ashcraft
AQHA Youth Intern