(Minden, NV) On Thursday July 17th HOOF-it Technologies presented a hoof care clinic at the ranch of Certified Farrier Steve Samet. The clinic, which was facilitated by Kristi Jackson, covered basic hoof trimming and basic hoof maintenance to be practiced by the average horse owner with a focus on the importance of proper trimming and proper hoof balance for the overall health of the horse.
One of the unique features of this clinic was the use of “Alfred” the bio-mechanical horse. “Alfred” is a life sized horse mannequin with moveable legs which simulate the legs and hoofs of an actual horse. This mannequin allows students to get hands on training in various hoof care techniques without the need for a live horse. The techniques learned on “Alfred” can later be applied to a live horse.
Mr. Samet gave a lecture on basic hoof ailments such as quarter crack, missing hoof wall, and pulling a loose shoe. In addition Mr. Samet emphasized the importance of communicating with your farrier and veterinarian about potential problems with your horse’s hooves.
Mr. Samet discussed the pros and cons of a horse going barefoot versus shod, steel shoes versus composite shoes, and getting a horse comfortable with a hoof stand. The clinic also demonstrated the use of acrylic compounds to repair cracks in the hoof. The participants were given hands on training in various hoof care techniques throughout the evening. A new product for emergency hoof repair, Bio-Wrap, was unveiled by Mr. Samet. This new product fascinated those attending the clinic and was the main topic for the question and answer period.
The next HOOF-it Hoof Care Clinic will be held in El Dorado Hills, CA, at the Grace Foundation of Northern California. The Grace Foundation is known for their rescue work with horses.
For more information regarding this or future clinics contact HOOF-it Technologies at 1-888-665-9099 or visit hoofcareclinics.com.