Cherry Hill, America's most trusted equine expert, teams up with Richard Klimesh, a professional farrier and her frequent writing partner, to address the twin topics of hoof care and horseshoeing. Proper hoof care is one of the most important contributors to a horse's health and well-being. Without sound, well-maintained hooves, an otherwise healthy horse can become lethargic, grouchy, and sullen. With healthy hooves, a horse's noble personality shines.
"Horse Hoof Care" covers what every horse owner needs to know about this critical key to a horse's overall health and performance. Hill and Klimesh explain the anatomy of the hoof, the role of the farrier, and all the principles of good care and maintenance. They also address the ongoing debate on whether or not to shoe and how to proceed with either choice. From addressing gait problems to training a horse for shoeing, and from feeding a balanced diet to performing daily hoof checks, if it affects horse foot health, it's covered here.
As with many aspects of horse care, daily routines and consistent treatment can prevent future problems, but even with the best care, horses may develop foot ailments. Readers will find comprehensive coverage of lost shoes, hoof cracks, thrush, clubfoot, contracted heels, and many other common problems, along with advice on treatment. A complete chapter on issues that require a veterinarian tells readers exactly what to look for and how to proceed.
"Horse Hoof Care" is the fifth book in Cherry Hill's Horsekeeping Skills Library, dedicated to giving horse owners the information they need to care for horses in every situation.