Natural Hoof Trimming

 

 

I offer hoof trimming services in the Gainesville, FL area :

 

Service
Fee
Barefoot trim (all 4)
$30-45
Consultation (Trimming or Boot Fitting)
$45

I charge $30 per horse for maintenance trims on well behaved horses. Horses with long or pathologic feet are typically $45 per trim. I can offer multiple horse discounts and introductory rates for new clients. I know that you will be happy with my trimming abilities, so give me a call!

Trimming Methods

My trimming methods are very similar to Pete Ramey’s methods (for more information go to www.hoofrehab.com).  When I trim a horse, my goals are to make that horse more comfortable and to get his/her feet closer to the wild hoof model.  I use a very non-invasive method of trimming and it can take 2 or 3 trims to get a horse with long feet back to a desirable length.  I do not believe that every horse should have the same foot, so I do not trim to specific angles or standards. I allow the horse to show me how his/her feet should be trimmed by reading the hoof growth and natural wearing. My objective is to help the horse be sound and happy. My objective is NOT to make his/her feet look a certain way.

I encourage my clients to have me out on a regular schedule and I also encourage them to exercise their horses on a daily basis (either through turn-out or riding).  If their horse is sore-footed on hard ground during rides, I recommend using Easy-boots during exercise to encourage proper movement. I also encourage owners with chronically lame horses to evaulate their horses diet and lifestyle. I have found that massage therapy, chiropractic and other forms of equine body work greatly compliment barefoot trimming and can accelerate the horse's rehabilitation.

 

How I got started in natural hoofcare

I became aware of the benefits of natural hoofcare after my mare foundered as a result of giving birth. This was a mare that never had good feet. She was often sore-footed and would need shoes with pads when ridden on the trails. I was disappointed, but not surprised, when she foundered. I was given the name of a local natural hoofcare practitioner and I had her come out and trim my mare. She also fitted her with Easy Boots and pads. My mare was immediately more comfortable and with regular trims and use of boots, she is now completely sound! I currently ride her barefoot (no boots) on trails.

In January 2007, I was fortunate to be able to participate in a clinic given by Pete Ramey and Dr. Bowker.  I will also be attending the International Laminitis Clinic this November. If you have a horse that needs help or if you would like to start using natural hoof care on your horses, please e-mail (angel@angelsanimals.com) or call at 978-729-9365.  I’m looking forward to meeting you and your horses!

 

Education

B.S. Veterinary Science, Minor Equine Science. University of Arizona, May 2004

M.S. Pathobiology. University of Arizona, December 2006

 

Case Studies

Dude

 

Natural hoofcare links