Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs - New Zealand Farriers Association

Are there any problems associated with shoeing the hoof?

Where do I begin? Good farriers are well aware that their chosen profession is fraught with danger not only for themselves (dealing with horses that are not accustomed to being shod) but also for the horse. (Nails can prick the sensitive structure of the hoof if nailed too coarsely).

There would not be a farrier in the country who has not experienced this problem not to mention the raft of other potential problems associated with shoeing horses.

It is important for the horse owner to deal with a professional qualified farrier where possible. (Some parts of the country are very isolated and in those places owners tend to shoe their own horses or get a friend to give it a go.)

The farrier constantly tries to mitigate the effects of shoeing by paying particular attention to correct trimming and hoof preparation, choosing the correct size and style of shoe most suited to the horse and ensuring that the shoe is nailed on so that the shoe does not cause any discomfort through the nails being driven too coarsely or sole pressure from the shoe being clamped too tightly to the hoof that has been over trimmed.

The qualified farrier has a broad knowledge base and experience that serves him well when dealing with problem feet. A shoeing job that is not completed to a high standard, if repeated at each subsequent shoeing, will eventually cause further problems for the horse later in its life. Common shoeing faults begin with poor trimming. Hoof balance is essential so placing a well fitted shoe to a poorly trimmed or unbalanced hoof is unacceptable and counterproductive.

Likewise a poorly fitted shoe on a well balanced hoof is equally prejudicial to the horse's long term soundness.