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Barefoot Horse Benefits – Why Bare Is Best

January 25, 2012 by Stephanie Krahl

Bare is best
Have you ever heard of someone’s equine companion falling during a competitive event?

One example is in the sport of barrel racing.  A common concern barrel racers have is the possibility of their equine partner falling during a run.

This is a valid concern.

Falling can be attributed to several factors.  Two being the quality of the ground at the event and a shod horse.

What?  A shod horse? Yes, The effects of shoeing can contribute to her falling during a race.

It makes sense doesn’t it?

Side note: The word “shod” is commonly used in the equine industry to mean a horse with metal shoes.  However, with the advancement of booting technology, you could also argue that  a booted horse is shod.  For this article “shod” means with metal shoes – metal which is nailed on to the bottom of the hoof.

The fact is, your equine partner is unable to feel the ground when she’s shod.  A sound barefoot horse not only can feel the ground, she also has better traction.

Hmm, better traction.  Now that’s a thought.

Those accustomed to traditional shoeing don’t understand the concept of why barefoot is better.

There are thousands of reasons to implement this concept.  My example is only one.

Remember, some people have heard of keeping their equine partner barefoot, but many still haven’t.  If they’ve heard of it, they may discount it, think people like you and I are crazy, or they say it doesn’t work for their situation.

The reason?

Because tradition, centuries of old wives’ tails, and lack of knowledge, give people permission to continue doing what they’ve always done.”

Most people feel it works, and if it’s not “broken,” why fix it?

One of Soulful Equine’s guiding principles is a naturally healthy horse is also barefoot.  Those of you who are avid readers of Soulful Equine understand the importance of this guiding principle.

You’ve experienced it first hand with your own equine partner.

You feel confident that it’s the right thing to do for your situation.

And, you’re part of an important shift in horse care practices that allows you to provide the best for your equine partner.

Everyone’s story is unique, so tell me, why is bare better for your horse?

Help us share the barefoot concept with those who are still on the fence. Your story may help them decide to responsibly take their equine companion barefoot.

Collectively, we may be able to help someone and their equine partner.

Feel free to share your story, I’d love to hear what you have to say.

This article is included in a 7-part Barefoot Horse 101 series.

Keep it soulful,
Stephanie Krahl

####

Photo credit – original photo modified in size and to include the Soulful Equine name and URL

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Filed Under: Barefoot Hoof Care

About Stephanie Krahl

Stephanie Krahl is a natural horse care specialist, co-founder and CEO of Soulful Equine® and author of the book Guiding Principles of Natural Horse Care. She teaches horse guardians about natural concepts that help their horses THRIVE. When she’s not with horses Stephanie loves watching movies, reading, and going to the gun range. Join Stephanie on Google+ and if you want a thriving equine, click here to register now for Stephanie's free Soulful Guardian™ Basics.

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