How to Properly Pick Out Horse Hooves

The hoof has plenty of history.
Maintaining the hooves of your horse is an integral part of being a responsible caretaker. Without the hoof, there would be no horse.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Horse
• Hoof pick
• Patients
• Muscles
• Gentleness

1. Begin the task of picking out the hoof, by placing a halter and lead rope onto the horse. Tie him out to a secure post. While working with the horse, don't hesitate to talk to him in a soothing voice. Starting with the front hoof, place your hand upon his knee, smoothing it toward the hoof.

2. 
   Hoof/pick

   As you approach the hoof, holding it in hand, ask the horse to pick it up. As he picks up his hoof praise him. Now you are ready to use the pick. Apply even pressure to the pick while dragging it through the packed debris. As the dirt falls away, you will begin to notice the underside of the hoof. Continue gently digging on both sides until all muck is removed.

3. 
   Frog

   Once you have removed the surface dirt, you will notice a "V" shaped area in the bottom of the hoof. This is the frog. On either side of the frog are crevasses which follow the "V". Starting at the point of the "V" use your pick to lift out the remainder of muck.

4. 
   Clean hoof

   With the hoof completely cleaned, it is easy to detect any remaining seed sized stones that may have become lodged in the hoof wall. Pick them out, as they can cause abcessing and eventually pushing through to the outter wall of the hoof.

Tips & Warnings

• Relax - the horse feels what you feel
• Gloves may be of assistance to help hold the hoof
• Wear boots, not sandals or tennis shoes
• If there is a distinctly foul odor, consult your veterinarian