The Importance of Regular Hoof Care

How to Keep Your Horse’s Hooves Healthy and Strong

When it comes to horse health, there’s a saying that rings true in every paddock: “No hoof, no horse.” A horse’s hooves are its foundation, supporting every movement and absorbing the shock of gallops, jumps, and even leisurely trots. Neglecting hoof care can lead to pain, lameness, or more serious health issues. Here’s why regular hoof care is essential and how you can keep your horse’s hooves in top nick.

Why Regular Hoof Care Matters

• Prevents Disease and Injury: Regular cleaning helps you spot issues like thrush, cracks, or lodged stones before they become major headaches.

• Promotes Comfort: Clean, trimmed hooves reduce discomfort and the risk of lameness, helping your horse move freely.

• Supports Overall Health: Healthy hooves encourage proper blood flow and support your horse's legs and joints, reducing the risk of long-term problems.

• Core of Horse Welfare: If you don't supply regular hoof care to your fur babies, then this constitutes a welfare issue that you are responsible for. It's almost as dangerous as not feeding children who are dependent on you for basic care. Please keep your horses' hooves as a top priority for their basic care.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning Out Your Horse’s Hooves

1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a hoof pick, a stiff brush, and optionally a hoof oil or conditioner. Most hoof picks will have the brush as an attachment.

2. Secure Your Horse: Tie your horse safely using a quick-release knot or have someone hold them steady.

3. Lift the Hoof: Stand beside your horse facing the tail. Run your hand down the horse’s leg and gently squeeze the fetlock. Most horses will lift their foot for you. (If they are awesome, they may even be able to do this from a voice cue and learn your pattern when lifting all legs for you.)

4. Pick Out Debris: Using the hoof pick, carefully remove dirt, manure, stones, and any other gunk, paying close attention to the grooves (called ‘collateral sulci’) on either side of the frog (the V-shaped part in the centre).

5. Brush the Hoof: Use the stiff brush to sweep away any remaining dust or fine debris.

6. Check for Problems: Look for signs of thrush (black, smelly spots), cracks, or anything unusual. If you spot anything worrying, have a yarn with your farrier or vet. Or apply your thrush treatment from your handy Equine First Aid Kit.

7. Repeat for Each Hoof: Don’t forget the back feet!

How Often Should You Clean and Care for Hooves?

• Daily: Clean out your horse’s hooves every day, especially if they’re stabled or in wet, muddy conditions. It only takes a few minutes and can save you a heap of trouble.

• Before and After Rides: Always check and clean hooves before tacking up and again after your ride (as objects or compacted sand may cause issues).

• Farrier Visits: Book your farrier every 6–8 weeks for trims or shoeing as needed. Horses’ hooves grow continuously and regular trims keep them in proper shape.

Final Tips for Healthy Hooves

• Keep your horse’s living area clean and dry to prevent hoof rot and thrush.

• Provide a balanced diet with adequate minerals and biotin for hoof strength.

• Stay alert for changes in gait or signs of discomfort—early intervention is key.

Making hoof care part of your daily horse routine isn’t just about neat feet—it's about ensuring your horse stays healthy, happy, and ready for any adventure. So grab your hoof pick, have a go, and give your horse the best foundation possible!