If you’ve ever encountered a horse with long, neglected hooves, you know it’s a challenging situation. Today, we’re diving into how we tackle this issue with an Arabian horse whose hooves need significant attention.

The first step in our hoof restoration process is assessing the hoof’s condition. We start by examining the top inch or two past the coronary band. This helps us understand the angle of the coffin bone, crucial for determining how much hoof we can safely trim. Using a reciprocating saw, we carefully chop off excess hoof material. This method is much quicker than using traditional tools like nippers or rasps.

As we trim, it’s essential to remove excess heel growth to create a flat, anatomically correct surface for the horse to stand on. This not only improves the horse’s comfort but also provides a solid foundation for new, healthy hoof growth. Many people mistakenly believe that trimming should focus only on the toe, but it’s crucial to address the heel as well for proper hoof balance.

By carefully restoring the hoof to a more normal shape, we help ensure the horse’s well-being and prepare it for a healthier future.