Barefoot Hoof Care and the Trail Boot

If your horse is barefoot, it is important to be vigilant where his management is concerned in winter - this is because wet conditions can allow bacteria to thrive, leading to unhealthy feet. In addition, extensive stabling can cause problems if the horse is not on a well-draining bed. To maximise your horse’s welfare, maintain a clean stable environment, ask your farrier or trimmer to perform regular trims or checks, provide a natural, low sugar, high fibre diet, and provide the horse with as much natural movement as possible. If you are transitioning from shod to barefoot, hoof boots will allow you to continue riding on all surfaces during the transition; meanwhile, some barefooted horses may always need boots on rough, stony ground when ridden, especially if the owner’s circumstances don’t allow for optimum diet and environment. The EasyCare Trail is a popular hoof boot, and appeals to those that enjoy pleasure riding up to 25 miles. Priced from £57.99 - £69.99. Key features - • Sold in singles • Easy to apply – simple closure • Available in 11 sizes • Comfortable and lightweight • Drainage holes in sole Comfort pads are advised for use in any hoof boot, for the most natural and beneficial experience for your horse.) To quote RF(BngC), MF(IMFA), CE-F qualified farrier, Mike Chawke of Ireland’s Little Farm Stud: “Why not try leaving your animal in its natural state, and simply fit hoof boots when you want to train or exercise your barefoot horse?”