You wrote:
> Ok, I'm really confused now. I thought I was doing the right
> thing..now not so sure.
> Mystery started forging this summer. We are both learning to trot for
> miles and developing proper muscling, collection, conditioning.
<SNIP>
> So, when he is reshod: should I have his shoes set "normal" and start
> at square one as if he never forged before? If he forges, should I try
> Ti's longer back length, shorter angle front or square his back again?
> Should I get him trotting out on soft earth in his bare feet to see if
> he is forging? He's never nicked himself. I didn't realize squaring
> the back was considered "drastic".
If the way Mystery is shod prevents him from forging when he is
working well (& not tired), and he isn't sore/lame, I wouldn't fool
with success!! Squaring the back toes is NOT drastic, in my book.
Horses will naturally wear their foot this way when barefoot, so I
see it as part of the normal range for foot anatomy.
I consider 1" long shoe trailers, borium for grabs, weighted shoes and
heel caulks drastic! I guess it is a matter of perspective.
We can't see your horse's conformation and way of going, so you &
your farrier need to make this decision! A horse who is cutting
himself or bruising his front feet by forging will not be a happy
camper & may eventually come up lame! Working on your riding skills
is an excellent adjunct to good work from a competent farrier!
Best of luck!
Linda Flemmer
ABF Challenger ("Rocket") & Eternal Point ("Major")
Blue Wolf Ranch Chesapeake, Virginia, USA
"In case of emergency - Fur side up, steel side down!"