Here's a photo for a Friday. I might try and post a new photo each Friday. "Might" and "try" that is. With thanks to Antonia Steeg Photography
Blog Post: “What’s causing sand cracks in my horses feet?”
Question: My four-year-old TB has a sand crack in one of her hooves. This crack has been there quite some time and has almost grown to the bottom of the hoof. While the coronet appears healthy and I never noticed any injuries, my main concern is that the hoof is still growing with a split. …
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Seedy toe
Often referred to as White Line Disease, seedy toe is a very common condition in horses all over New Zealand but almost unheard of in some parts of the world. In most cases, seedy toe does not cause lameness and can be eliminated effectively with careful management. What it is The white line, which can …
Farrier photo
Smokin' photo courtesy of Antonia Steeg
Shoeing Dressage Horses
Question: I am curious if you know whether special shoeing for specific disciplines is done here in New Zealand. I have recently had a friend and fellow dressage rider out from England, and she expressed surprise that my farrier was an ‘all-round’ farrier, so to speak, because she uses a farrier who specialises in shoeing …
horseshoeing photo
Here's a shoeing photo taken a couple of years ago Image courtesy of Antonia Steeg
Should I take the shoes off my horse over winter? Q&A
Question: Do horses need to have their shoes removed when they are turned out over winter? Last season I thought I was doing my part-TB a favour taking his shoes off, but he was really crippled and unhappy hobbling around the paddock, let alone on the stoney driveway when I bought him in for his …
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farrier – farrier relations
Farriers are generally a friendly bunch. Much gets written (and quite rightly so) about farrier-vet relations. Having open communcation and a mutual respect between vets and farriers can make a huge difference to the ongoing treatment and welfare of horses. If the vet and farrier are on the same page when it comes to the …
Sprung shoe when riding question
My horse sprung a shoe while I was riding him a few days ago and one of the nails went right into the sole of his foot. Fortunately, the farrier happened to be visiting my neighbour and so he was able to remove the shoe. But I'd like to know, if this happens again, should …
Mango Butter Sunshade
Today was a scorcher here in Christchurch. This stuff is great for horses and people for protection from the sun. Savvy Touch Mango Butter Sunshade is SPF30 and proudly made in New Zealand. Ingredients include calendular oil, active manuka honey and mango butter naturally. It applies to the skin beautifully and the pump bottle makes …
Farrier Blog 