Hoofworks

Natural Hoofmanship

Some hints on horse handling, and communication, for trimmers.

I do not claim to be a riding instructor or "horse training expert" but each time I spend an hour trimming a horse's feet I am also spending an hour training that horse, either for the better or the worse.

I think it is worth making sure that each hour is spent making sure that both the horse, and I, will enjoy this trim and any future trims.

Trimming is not a contest, nor a contact sport, though "contact" is very important. Stay "in touch" and "Speak" and "Listen" to the horse through your shoulder and upper body.

The best results come by ensuring that both the horse and trimmer are safe and comfortable.

If it becomes a contest, we have already lost, because the horse is bigger, heavier and stronger than we are.

I expect the horse to stand "ground tied" for trimming.

If I have a round-yard, I work towards having the horse stand with no rope.

Standing, Kneeling, or Sitting???

Regardless of what is the best "posture" or best "position' for any trimmer, or any horse, the safest and easiest way will always be to relax, to win (and deserve) the horse's trust, and allow them to choose to help us.

Impatient "stroppy old mares" just need patience, immature "silly young colts" just need maturity, horses with pain and fear need relief and reassurance.

They will always respond much better to this "mental position" than to any form of physical restraint.

Natural Hoofcare and Natural Horsemanship
are both part of caring better for our horses.

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