How to Pick Up A Front Hoof Properly

Hoof care and cleaning for your horse is crucial. Here is how to pick up a front hoof safely and quietly, so you can provide a good cleaning.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Horse with Halter
• Lead attached to halter
• Someone to hold horse, or safe place to secure horse
• Confidence

1. 

   The position of your body is important when lifting a hoof. Do NOT put your foot or leg in FRONT of the horse AT ANY TIME. Stand close to the horse's side, with both of your feet near each other, toes pointing towards the rear of the horse.

2. 

   Run your hand firmly down the horse's neck, to his shoulder, down to his front leg. Do this with Intention. (IE: Intend to have you horse politely lift his leg for you.)

3. 

   Slide your hand down the leg, with your fingers to the inside of the leg, thumb to the outside. When you reach the pastern area, you can use your index finger to rub (or lightly scratch or tickle) the back of the pastern as a cue to lift.

4. As your horse gently lifts his hoof, your job is to have a firm hold around the pastern or hoof itself. Keep the leg under your horse- do not bring it out away from his body as this makes the horse quite uncomfortable. It can also affect their balance, making them upset. Keep a firm grasp of the hoof as you clean the sole.

5. When you are done, DO NOT simply drop the hoof. Gently and POLITELY place the hoof back on the ground. If you drop the hoof, you are telling the horse that you have no concern for his safety, nor his manners. Remember: your horse will treat you, as you treat him. A firm but kind request for manners, and you treating the horse with manners of your own will allow for a great working relationship to begin and grow.

Tips & Warnings

• Be safe. If your horse is spooky, allow him to work first before you attempt to lift legs.
• Keep these three things in mind:
• 1)You Must Be Safe
• 2)Your Horse Must Be Safe
• 3)Your Horse Must Be Calmer At The End, Then He Was At The Beginning
• NEVER put your feet or legs directly in front of a horse when you are lifting legs and hooves.
• Stay CLOSE to your horse- putting distance between you will increase your risk of injury should the horse move.
• Always let someone know where you are, and when you should be back in from time with your horse.
• If the horse is too much for you, consult a professional for a few lessons! Better to be safe, than sorry!