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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Emma Creighton
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A number of equine professionals have recently highlighted the damaging effects that traditional shoeing methods may have upon horse hoof health. This has prompted the philosophy that shoeing is unnecessary, even for working horses; and that with a combination of gradual acclimatisation and specialist hoof care, it is possible to restore natural functioning of the hoof. This has sparked heated debate within the equestrian world, but to date there is very little empirical research to inform these opinions. This study aimed to quantify the experiences of owners who had chosen to transition their horses to barefoot and to test some of the claims and counterclaims made in the grey literature. Data were collected via an online survey targeted at barefoot horse owners via specialist Internet forums. Respondents (N=109) were in transition or had successfully transitioned their horses to barefoot soundness, and so did not reflect the experiences of owners who had abandoned going barefoot. The majority (62%) had gone barefoot to promote hoof health, with 19% aiming to treat specific hoof problems. Ninety percent reported an improvement in hoof health and 83% had made no changes to the amount or type of work they did with their horse. Median transition time was 6-12 months, with the majority of horses showing hoof soreness, though little evidence of more serious problems. Transition time increased with number of years of prior shoeing (P=0.035) and continuous shoeing (P=0.009). Trimming frequency matched farriery standards, but the type of trim and training of the trimmer varied, reflecting different schools of the barefoot movement. Collectively, the data suggest that barefoot horses can work successfully, that shoeing may have long-term pathological effects on hoof health that can be corrected by going barefoot, but that a consistent industry with established methods and trained professionals has yet to emerge.
Author(s): Creighton E, Jones K
Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. Abstract)
Publication status: Published
Conference Name: 4th International Equitation Science Conference
Year of Conference: 2008
