AboutChristine Sizemore Expertise I can answer questions for horse owners who would like to have their horses go barefoot (without shoes) and can also answer questions related to hoof care.
Experience Barefoot trimmer since 2003, rehabilitation of problem feet, transition of horses from shoes to barefoot, work with horse owners to make the appropriate decision re: shoes or no shoes, train horse owner to perform basic hoof care between trims.
Education/Credentials MS and PhD. in Biology, Horse owner, extensive continuing education in hoof care and trimming.
Past/Present Clients Thoroughbreds, quarterhorses, arabians, gaited horses, one draft :-); current clients are trail horses, pleasure horses, geriatric horses with arthritis, pony club hunters, jumpers. All barefoot and maintained to be best at their intended use without shoes.
Question HI I dont know if i should be worried or not. I have never really seen a barefoot horse. Looking at my new horse his feet are bare foot. I am usto seeing a slight concave in the hoof. To me the whole foot seems evenly flat. The sole is even with the hoof. Is this normal. or is he walking on his soles?. What do you consider flat foot. if he is flat footed should i shoe him? Thanks kim
Answer Hello Kim, thanks for the question. Its not how the hoof looks that is important but whether your horse is comfortable without shoes and you are happy with what you can do riding wise. I know several horses that you may call really flat-footed and they do great barefoot, and others with a nice "cup" in the foot that have difficulties working without shoes. That said, though, how long has your new horse been without shoes? If all his life, and he (she) is comfortable being ridden and gets regular hoof care, then there is really no reason to put on shoes. Shoes are just to protect hooves from too much wear or to add traction devices such as studs for work that we ask horses to do that they would not otherwise have to do, such as high jumping, racing, etc.
So in essence, the question is not "whether horse can go barefoot" but rahter "whether they really need shoes". If your horse is ok without, make sure he gets regular trims (4-6 week intervals) and don't worry about the looks of the hoof.
