Karen, It’s not the same to build up gradually to carrying
around 200 pound on a 24x7 basis and being asked to carry around 200 pounds for
a couple hours 3-4 times a week. It’s just not the same. And,
some horses with weak hoof structures pay dearly for it if no supported with some
sort of shoes. Yes, you can condition the muscles and tendons and build
bone density. But, there are some horse that you cannot build a stronger
hoof on. It’s just not going to happen.
That being said, there are lots of brood mares that also have
hoof troubles when they’re pregnant and need to be shod.
Several years ago when I began my barefoot at all costs adventure
I thought the same way you do. There have been a few horses pass my way
since then that have taught me a lot. I don’t believe the same ways
now.
Karen
From:
ridecamp-owner@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:ridecamp-owner@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf
Of Karen Sullivan Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2008 5:06 PM To: Karen Standefer Cc: Elizabeth Walker; Ridecamp Subject: Re: [RC] Shoeing
Karen, I disagree with that, becuase the training and
conditioning of the horse to adapt to a rider is generally done gradually also
if done right...nobody jumps on a horse that had never been ridden and does 50
miles....horses are started young, for hopefully, no more than 5-10
minutes initially....and the time on their back is slowly increased.
