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Ann:
Not sure what part of the country you are from but the way to determine how
your horses feet should look for endurance is to go bare foot for a while
and let them become as natural as possible.
First realize the horse was not born with shoes. No, I am not being
sarcastic but the horse does not need to be shod until the hoof growth is
exceeded by the hoof ware. Here in our region with very abrasive soils we
find that more than about 25 miles of riding per week and we need shoes.
Realize also these same horses are running in the hills when not being
ridden and on the same abrasive soils. It also varies from hore to horse.
But back to the hoof with out shoes. The bare foot horse will wear the hoof
to its most comfortable shape and angles. It will not do this in one riding.
I would suggest you give it a month or so to develop the proper wear pattern
and for the hoof to relax and conform to the rest of the body. The hoof is a
very dynamic structure and changes as to use.
You stated; <<I have been looking at the feet of some what I think are
rather good Arabs on a small stud. These are horses used mainly in Country
and English Pleasure classes.>>
Realize, these horses are not ridden long distance, rough ground, or for
extensive periods of time. They are "SHOW" horses not using horses. They are
nice to look at but not "go down the road" with.
Remember also, each horse is an individual. Each foot on each horse is an
individual. We humans MAKE them conform to a standard the horse in nature
does not.The horse wears them to what is long lasting and comfortable. We
humans should do more of this and let the horse show what it wants and needs
.
Bob Morris
Morris Endurance Enterprises
Boise, ID
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