Q&A for How to Trim Horse Hooves

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How often do you need to trim a horse's hooves?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

You need to trim a horse's hooves every four to six weeks to keep the horse healthy.

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Question

Do horse hooves need to be trimmed?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

Yes, horse's hooves are continuously growing and should be rasped down by an experienced farrier every 4-6 weeks.

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Question

Do all horses need shoes?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

No, some horses do much better without shoes. This is a conversation between you, your farrier, and your veterinarian. They will be able to look at your horse's conformation and help you determine the best course of action.

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Question

How much does a farrier cost to trim hooves?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

It depends on the farrier, the area you are in, and how much work your horse's hooves need. Typically it can run around $100-$300 each time.

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Question

My pony had a sand crack in its hoof and just had an abscess. My vet cut the sole to drain it. How long will it be until his sole regrows and he can go out to pasture again?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

This will depend on how fast your horse's sole grows. Additionally, it depends on the hardness of the sole, which is based on genetics. Keep in mind that each horse is different. However, it will likely take at least 3-5 weeks for your horse's sole to heal.

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Question

How much should be left on the hoof?

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ryan Corrigan is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University in 2010. She is also a Member of the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing Technicians since 2011.

Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Expert Answer

This will depend on how fast your horse's hooves grow, as well as how much they grow. It's best to trim just a little at a time at first until you learn your horse's individual needs. Additionally, get an experienced farrier to help you trim the hooves the first few times you do it so that you can learn how.

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