I can do that.

Many horse owners are or have been contemplating trimming their own horses. Several of the well known natural hoofcare experts and the associations they represent propose that owners learn to trim their own horses. There are also a growing number of “how to” websites created for this end. I am not against this practice, on the contrary I’ve trained both individuals and group clinics on how to trim, but I do believe there are some points to consider when making the decision whether or not trimming your horse is for you.

First, be prepared to seek professional help. Find a trimmer that is willing to work with you and gradually introduce you to the many facets of trimming a horse. Books and websites can be valuable tools, but should not be your sole source of information. The web can also be a source of confusion due to the many conflicting trimming philosophies circulating around the web. Finding experienced help will go a long way in preventing your frustration and your horse’s discomfort.

When I first work with an owner desiring to learn how to trim their own horse the first step is to assess the horse’s suitability. The horse’s feet should be in generally good health and free of pathologies. Please do not think you’re going to learn how to trim on your foundered horse. A professional should be employed to rehabilitate the feet and get them to the point in which you can begin taking a more active role in the trimming process. Also, the horse should be well behaved. It is difficult enough learning to trim without dealing with a rearing or kicking horse.

The next stage is becoming comfortable under your horse. Before you can learn to trim you must learn how to hold the feet maintaining the HORSE’S comfort and still be able to use your hands. Trimming is a physical activity and it will take some time before you can comfortably hold the foot long enough to effectively trim it. Learning to properly hold the foot makes learning to trim much easier, since you’re focusing on the foot and not your shaking legs and aching back. Even when an owner begins to do some actual trimming I advise to only work on one or two feet during one trimming session and work your way up to all four feet.

The next step involves becoming familiar with using a rasp. I do not use nippers when teaching owners to trim and advise they avoid their use. I have found the best way to learn how the rasp works is, after some instruction, for the owner to maintain the mustang roll several times between trimming sessions. Once you can comfortably hold the foot and use the rasp for touch ups you will be better prepared to learn the entire trimming process. This is generally the “make it or break it” time. This is the time when many owners decide using a professional isn’t such a bad idea.

If the owner decides he or she wants to trim their horse the following trimming sessions include both academic and hands on work. The process begins with the owner watching me trim one front and then I guide them through trimming the other front. The process is then repeated on the hind feet. During this time I not only show the hows, but explain the whys of trimming. Simply trying to duplicate a model invites problems. Understanding why each structure is trimmed in the manner it is helps avoid many of the pitfalls encountered when trying to trim based on photos downloaded off the internet. I do suggest having a professional present the first time you go solo and periodically having your horses’ feet checked by a professional.

So before you go out and buy an apron and rasp consider what’s involved. Also, if your primary motivation is to save money, spare yourself the frustration, you will quickly learn that your farrier is worth every penny.  Moreover, understand what I have described is far from an apprenticeship and if your goal is to trim professionally more comprehensive training is required. For more information about learning to trim contact me via the contact information below this column. Until next time God Bless you and your equine partners.