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[RC] The Wonders of going Non-Barefoot - Bruce WearyI know that many of my endurance riding friends are enthusiastic and excited about their experiences with riding their horses barefoot. There are many plusses and minuses, but if they persist, they have some success. I have done both, practicing the barefoot program for over two years on all of our horses, and would like to share my excitement over going "Non-Barefoot." I used to sustain or worry about foot tenderness or bruising, and this led to occasional unsoundness, and would keep me from going down the endurance trail. I also had to constantly monitor the wearing down of hooves, so I'd know how much I could ride my horse, and when I had to stay home. Now, with steel shoes (and pads, when I need them) that worry is forever gone, with zero foot related lameness since. I used to hurt my back and my hands trimming my barefoot horses, but now I simply write a check to a professional farrier--no more putting boots on before every training ride, (my manicures last longer, and I just saddle up and go) and no more trips to the chiropractor. ( I have to see another chiro in town. I'm too busy to make an appointment with myself. Although, I hear I'm pretty good.) No more expensive boots to buy, store, lose or have the neighbor's dog run off with. It's wonderful! I should have done this sooner! And the sculptures I can make at home with my old leftover horseshoes are to die for!If my horse has a fight with another horse at a water stop, and that horse isn't shod, I know my horse will prevail, cuz he's got steel shoes on. When shod properly, his feet sustain their shape and soundness throughout their lives. I can go faster over rough terrain with virtually no additional risk to the horse. This helps me to beat more people, garner more awards, and have more braggin' rights. All because I simply took a chance-- I nailed some shoes on my horse and went for broke. Now I know that going non-barefoot isn't for everyone or for every horse, but with a little persistence and homework, I know that many of you can make it work. It takes a little time--all you have to do is find the right farrier and then write him a check, and, Presto!, you're non-barefoot. Be forewarned, however. There are those who will tell you that what you are doing is harmful to the horse. They'll think you're a fanatic, and that you're just following another crazy fad. Just remember, they've got their experts, and you've got yours. And besides, many of your friends go non-barefoot, and they do just fine. In fact , every Tevis winner (that I know of) has had steel shoes on. So, don't be afraid to travel the "Non-Barefoot" path. You know your horse, and what's best for him. Break from the maddening crowd. Go non-barefoot. It just might work for you, too. Dr Q, off to the kitchen for another cup of joe. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net. Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp Ride Long and Ride Safe!! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
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