Here a trim......there a trim

Hoof trimming is a very important part of a horses' health care routine.  If their hooves get too long it can cause tripping - which is never good for the horse or the rider - since falling can cause serious injuries.  A farrier  examines their feet and can easily tell if there is a problem brewing as many conditions can cause lameness (that's when a horse can not be ridden.)  Luckily for Bud & I - there have not been any problems w/his feet...whew.

           .
              Bud is put in cross ties & John bends his leg at the knee.
             

          Here he examines all parts of his hoof & cuts away old growth

          as well as cleans out the area.  Can you imagine if horses were never

          seen by a farrier......they would all be wearing elf shoes!!       

          He then brings his leg forward & files down his hoof to maintain

                    the correct shape for his build & weight.

                    


As you can see...Bud is a very good,calm horse to work on....except for the camera phobia he has. I had to stop taking photos b/c he was starting to spook which would not have fun for John :(


When I think of all the weight his four legs have to support - I'm again in awe of these beautiful creatures - who are SO large & yet SO fragile.