The following is a quote from Robert Cook, FRCVS, PhD, professor of surgery emeritus at Tufts University and developer
of the Bitless Bridle. Cook is the author of a number of pro-barefoot/anti-horseshoe articles, is an advocate for keeping
all horses barefoot, without exception.
"All horses' hooves are healthier without shoes, and barefoot horses are healthier than shod horses. They live
longer, happier, less painful lives. Barefoot is a requirement for health and should be accepted as a condition for keeping
a horse. Humane management is not just preferable, it is non-negotiable. The foot evolved to function unshod. Nature has developed
the perfect design for grip and slide in all conditions and provided for unsurpassable shock absorption. The foot cannot expand
and contract with each step when clamped. Blood supply to the foot is impoverished and horn production becomes deficient.
When the foot is prevented from functioning correctly, the pastern, fetlock, cannon, and knee are also placed at risk. This
leads to bone, joint, and soft tissue injuries. "
-- Dr. Robert Cook, FRCVS, PhD from interview at Tufts University 2002
I realize not everyone will want to choose this more natural, healthier way of keeping their horses hooves maintained.
It requires thinking outside of the box of the current paradigm, and also requires the owner to become more involved with
the health of the horse's hooves. In many areas no qualified barefoot trimmer is available, and owners are learning
the techniques and skills necessary to do this trim themselves. Read more at the following links.
