John McGuire, a long-time horse farrier, located in Oklahoma, was our guest to talk about hoof care and share some insider tips.
John, you are a horseman. Tell us more!
For over 30 years, I have been team roping. Last weekend, I was lucky enough to win four of the five ropings that we entered and take home four buckles and a.45 pistols.
How long have you been trimming and shoeing horses?
27 years
How do you maintain your horse’s hooves personally?
Every day, I apply a hoof conditioner to my horse. I believe in hoof products such as Rain Maker, Horseshoer’s Secret, and Horse Flex. People often say that they have a can of this. I tell them that you need an empty container of it. A horseshoer can see if you have been using it. It’s useless in the can.
Let’s discuss hoof care . How often should horses be trimmed and shod?
It is a good rule of thumb to trim and shoe your horse every six to eight weeks. Remember that hoof growth can vary depending on the season, and horses may experience different levels of hoof growth.
How do you tell if your horse needs shoes?
Well, it depends. My personal opinion is that barefooting horses are better than barefooting. Some horses do require shoes. One example is my horse, who has a great head and must-have shoes. My mare is super-stinky. She can run on rocks and is so strong. If she didn’t accept being barefooted, I would have shoes on her. Horse owners should also consider the conditions at home and when travelling. Concrete and gravel can make horses tender-footed.
Do your customers use hoof boots?
Many people travel by horse. They can help horses who spend extended periods standing on concrete or hard surfaces.
Do you have any glue-on shoes for horses?
These shoes are great for shoeing barrel horses and many other horses. It’s amazing how long they last if you clean your hoof and put them on correctly.
Do any of your customers advocate hoof supplements for horses
Many of my clients use hoof supplements. This is for horses that lack certain minerals that promote healthy hooves.
What causes hoof cracks
Hoof cracks can be caused by three main factors, in my opinion. Horses’ hooves will split more easily if they are really dry. This is where the horse’s genes play a major role. It is also important to maintain his hooves. Your horse’s hooves can crack if they are allowed to go too long, break off or split, especially in dry weather. Hoof conditioners are my favourite way to prevent cracks. This is in addition to regular trimming and maintenance by your farrier every six-eight weeks depending on the horse’s hoof growth and individual needs.
What’s thrush?
Thrush is a bacterial infection in the hoof and the surrounding area. It will appear as a dark, almost syrupy discharge and can be smelled. It is important to dry the hoof, clean it out, and remove any moisture. I recommend using Thrush Buster. Although it works well, you must get the can out. Thrush can cause horses to become tender-footed and sore. The condition can become very serious if it is not treated. It can cause severe headaches if it gets wet, especially in the spring and fall. It’s been used by many horses.
What’s Whiteline disease?
White line disease is technically referred to as, but I think it’s more like a mild founder. The white line is the area between the hoof wall and the sole. The hoof wall can become damaged by bacteria. The infection can spread inside the wall and eat away at the hoof. The affected hoof must be removed, and hoped that he remains sound.
What’s the most common hoof problem that you have seen lately?
Many horses are now thin-walled and don’t have enough food for nailing. Although it is often thought that the stifle or hocks are responsible for horses becoming sore, it is usually the foot. Many horse owners desire a pretty, little foot. I am the exact opposite.