What you can expect in a typical visit
The initial visit will usually take between 2 & 3 hours. It will include assessment of the horse at walk and trot, assessment of the structures of the feet & what work they are capable of coping with (called spectrum of usability), taking of photographs of the feet and trimming (if required). Advice will be given about the horse's environment and what can be done to promote good health without overtaxing what can sometimes be very weak structures. The feet can often be helped with the use of hoof wraps or pads, and sometimes it may be recommended that you do not ride for a few weeks while structures improve.
The next visit will most likely be planned for 3 weeks later, but as health improves this can be increased. Ultimately we would be aiming for feet that can go anywhere and are self trimming, and I would only be doing a health check and slight trim. This of course will not happen with every horse, but the better the exercise and environment, the more likely it is to happen.
If the horse has any problems such as uneven gait, stiffness, etc. then I would advise you to also talk to an osteopath, saddle fitter, etc.. With more serious problems such as recurring lameness, navicular, severe infections, badly deformed feet, etc. I might wish to visit at the same time as your vet or osteopath to enable all of us to solve the problems together. A report on the health of your horse's feet may be written should you or your vet require.
What you can expect from me:
- I will treat you and your horse calmly, patiently and with respect.
- I will do my best to answers any questions you have. You may phone or email me at any (reasonable) time for advice.
- If I think that circumstances are unsuitable for your horse to go shoeless I will tell you.
What I would like from you:
- A clean, well lit area to work in, with clean dry feet if possible.
- The horse has been at rest for the last 3 hours.
- You are in attendance for the whole visit.
- The horse is trained to pick his feet up. (I am willing to work with difficult cases, but like to know about any problems in advance and will work with the owner to help sort them out).
- That you carry out the recommended exercise and treatments. The health of your horse's feet depend on this more than anything else.
Cost is £40 per horse, plus travel expenses to get to each location. Up to 5 miles is at no cost, beyond this is £2 for every 5 miles distance from my home.
I can carry out an initial assessment of horse & circumstances (no shoe removal or trim) for travel cost only if required.
I am able to supply most products that you will need for rehabilitation and treating infection.