Shoeing a Draft Horse - Tips and Techniques Part 1 (Front Hoof Trimming)

Michael Wildenstein demonstrates how to remove a shoe and trim the front hoof of a draft horse for farming and general use. He uses his young Percheron Pat for the demonstrations. There are many helpful lists displayed (see below) as different processes are explained.

Micheal starts off giving us important information on what the farrier
and the horse need to know before shoeing.

1. Be physically fit.
2. Well trained horse.
3. Understand the process and physiology.
4. Horse trained to stand.
5. Handler should be in control of the horse.
6. Use proper tools and equipment.

Next there is process of examining the horse.
1. Examine the horse standing.
2. Watch the horse walk.
3. Look for lameness issues.
4. Note any conformation abnormalities.
5. Inspect for defects and old injuries.

Here are a list of reasons a horse should be shoed:
1. Protect the hoof from excessive wear.
2. Provide traction.
3. Correct limb deviations
4. Compensate for injuries.

Michael goes step by step in demonstrating handling of the hoofs, removing the hoof nails and then the horseshoe.
Once the horseshoe is removed, Michael explains hoof symmetry and shows us on his Perchron's hoof as well as explaining hoof growth and the importance of regular scheduling .

He then proceeds to cleaning and paring the sole and frog to a uniform glossy surface and preparing for the nippers to follow. Next he trims the hoof with the nippers. He finishes with a rasp leveling the solar surface of the foot and lastly, the outside of the hoof wall.

After discussing options for shoeing horses that are not well trained, a thorough discussion of a safe work environment includes these elements.

1. Well lit work area.
2. Flat floor for examining hooves.
3. Keep area free of obstacles.
4. Eliminate potential distractions.
5. Take breaks during the work.

During the entire video, Michael shows us the tools he uses for shoeing draft horses. Michael's gentle temperament and soft voice are a perfect example of how to proceed with horse shoeing a draft horse.

A special thanks to Danny Ward for letting us shoot at his farrier school.