This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 9/13/2003 9:56:22 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
Barefooted is fine. HOWEVER, if you are doing your homework and putting in the miles required to do a good job, the wear will exceed the growth. I [ponies] wear steel shoes out in about 6 , or 7 weeks when in moderate training. There is no way that I could get by going barefooted. Sure wish I could, much better for the horse. *** This is a commonly stated logic with just one flaw: steel shoes don't grow -- hooves do. Not only do they grow, they grow as needed. Barefoot endurance riders report fantastic growth after long treks. Not trying to make any converts here -- you'll do what you think is best -- just pointing out that barefoot is possible for any work load. I once joked to the owner of a trail riding string that she'd put me out of business hoof trimming if she went barefoot with her herd. The long daily walks would self-trim and maintain themselves. She smiled and said no, her horses need shoes [and she needs to pay $150 x 20 every 6 weeks]. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
