Second Hoof Filing Lesson

So today was my second lesson on filing hooves.  (You probably figured that out from the title- huh?)

I went to A's house and we worked on some of her herd.  I am getting better at handling the file.  I only took off one knuckle.  Not bad for my second time around!   I find that I am getting better at spotting things that I have read on line. Such as, bars growing into the frogs, or contracted heels, the beginning signs of a little thrush, or a good all around hoof. Next will be to learn exactly what to do to fix those things that are wrong.

At first I was a little unsure of working on these horses. You see, most of them came to her with really bad hoof problems. So she has been working on them all slowly but surely and although some of them still have issues, the issues are minor compared to what they used to be. I was leery of undoing the good she has done, but I had supervision the entire time, and I only worked with the file. Any nipping or knifing I left up to her.

It was a good experience for me, I enjoyed it a lot.  It is nice to get the feel for the tools, a feel for working under the horse, and to gain some confidence.

I have decided however, and I think that A agrees, having a barefoot specialist come in and consult and get us started on Sassy is the right move.  Especially since she will be coming out of corrective shoeing.   I have a person in mind, will contact her this week and see if she is the right person for the job.  At least I am learning what questions to ask.

Now it is time for me to be off to the job.

Oh before I go.  My first Ranch Versatility event is in Feb. I'm excited because it is a schooling event, which is just what I need. The first day is a clinic and the second is judged by the instructors, more on who makes the most improvement (I think). I was hoping it would be in Queen creek, but it is in Scottsdale.

I haven't gotten in any real riding time with Trax this week, too many other things going on. Maybe Friday.