>>>>> Conclusions: The costs of swinging the limbs in the horse are considerable and the addition of weights to the distal limb can have a profound effect on not only the energetics of locomotion, but also the kinematics-at least in the hind limb. .... Potential Relevance: The use of weighted shoes, intended to increase the animation of the gait, will increase the metabolic effort of performance horses a disproportionate amount. The additional mass also increases the joint range of motion and potentially increases the likelihood of injury.
That's pretty clear, isn't it? It certainly is the same conclusions that local vets and farriers in this area seem to have reached here where gaited horses have always been common. As I've said before, this was the prevailing wisdom I heard from reputable vets and farriers almost 20 years ago when we first got Mac and our other horses. Karen Thomas, NC No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.12/1162 - Release Date: 11/30/2007 9:26 PM
