How to Pick Up a Horses Hoof

It is important to be able to handle your horses hooves. The hoof is the gateway to health in a horse since they spend 99% of their lives standing. Here is a guide to correctly teach your horse to give their foot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Halter
• Lead rope
• Extra lead rope

1. 
   Rope Halter

   First, fit your horse with the proper size halter. It is easiest to use a rope halter. These halters may be adjusted and tightened easily.

2. Second, tie your horse to a sturdy post or tree. Make sure you are in a safe area, where the horse feels comfortable. If you have cross ties in teh barn, this would be a good place to start.

3. Third, take the extra rope or lead rope you have and place it in a loose loop around the bottom of the horses leg just above the actual hoof in the bend. Pull the rope up a little until the horse gives to the pressure. He will either let you pull it up or try to kick out. If he kicks out, stop and start over until he doesn't kick.

4. Fourth, after the horse learns to let you pull his foot foward and doesn't mind, you can reach down and grab the hoof. He should lean and take weight off of that foot. Make sure he squares up so he won't be leaning on you. Then you can bend down and hold the hoof in your inside hand.

Tips & Warnings

• Work slowly.
• You must do this on both sides of the horse.
• You should be careful when working with horses. The can be dangerous. Especially hind feet.

[tgail]

on 10/30/2009 great article 5*

[sallyemaycreate]

on 10/9/2009 Great tips on how to pick up a horses hoof! 5*