October

Here is Sahara's hoof. Only did the front. Both font feet look the same so just took picture of 1

New Tools

I have a new rasp and it makes a world of difference. Today I bought a hoof knife and hopefully that will aid me more in my endeavors. So I have all of the basic tools now...save a hoof stand but don't really need that but the stool seems to be doing the job.

Hard Work Paid Off

The ground where the competition was held  is very different from where we usually ride. Much harder and rocky but Sahara showed not reluctance running over it and no signs of soreness afterward. Left front hoof had tiny tiny chip but that was it. Continuing my usual routine and hopefully her hooves will get even better and stronger. :)

YAY!

Have just been keeping up her hooves and she seems to be doing just fine. I still don't let her go fast over rocky roads unless she wants to and doesn't show reluctance which lately she isn't showing reluctance.

Only Good

Was getting worried that Sahara hooves were still sensitive and she seem to be reluctant to go any faster than a walk. Which is not normal people.  However past few days she was tanking off every where and going on rocky road. Yes, I was protesting the whole way but pretty happy to see she was doing this on her own meaning she wanted to therefore me coming to the conclusion her hooves must be doing much better.

Good and Bad

Before


Shape is looking better but seemed way more sensitive on rocks, bruised on left fore hoof. Did her hooves more than usual as I will let her roam around on own, no riding.

After


More
 

June 7

Just Starting

I didn't do too much riding being trapped in nursing school. Having graduated I have plenty of time, most of which I spend wondering what am I suppose to be doing. Have taken the opportunity to learn more about horses. I was very timid in doing my horses hooves because just so darn afraid of doing something wrong.

Well between the soft ground in the pasture and not riding, Sahara's hooves grew. I posted on forums asking for advice. Some helpful, some irrelevant, some not making any sense at all. I appreciate those total strangers willing to help me.

Majority say her heels are under run and toe was long. Had some guides on how to go about it. I have made progress and fall backs since March. At first I was being told I need to be proactive. Was not sure if trim more often or just more during the trim. Anyway as I was being more proactive as I saw it turns out I did go overboard a bit and now being told am getting carried away. So have stepped back and been doing more research on the anatomy of the hoof and different ways of trimming. I have found lots of sites but also lots of contradiction which confuse me more and I am confused to begin with. I have been keeping track and hope that what I have learned so far helps out anyone in similar situation.

Early March 2012

 
 Her right hoof done while left wasn't for comparison purposes

Late March
Front Left

Front Right

April 2012



Front Right

 

Front Left

May, This is where I go overboard