ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: High - Low Syndrome

Re: High - Low Syndrome

Ted and Linda (goppert@foothill.net)
Tue, 01 Apr 1997 19:43:36 -0800

High low syndrome is very common in Arabians and there if a great deal
of evidence that this condition is genetic. I have been a farrier in
California for 17 years and have worked on dozens of horses with
mismatched angles. I have one client who bred her mare to the same
stallion three times. All three of the foals developed a noticeable
left club foot.
I don't feel that this type of confirmation is the best for an
endurance horse. Since the angles do not match the strides of the front
legs are slightly different. Attempts to match the angles often create
more problems.
I have found the balancing each foot in relation to its own leg gives
the best result in maintaining soundness. Generally the angles of the
front feet should match within 3 degrees. If the difference is greater
than 3 degrees, You should probably consider looking for a new horse.
High-Low horses often tend to be high maintenance. Several of those
that I work on need to be shod every 4-5 weeks to maintain their
balance.
The longest lasting endurance horses I have seen over the years, (I've
been riding since 1978), have been those with matching front angles.
One of the problems facing farriers in the United States is the
increasing number of mismatched feet in horses. Arabians, Morgans, and
Thoroughbreds all have this problem, especially in certain bloodlines.
I can not say if the feet are the only problem with Laney's horse, but
the farrier's explanation is valid and his approach to shoeing this
horse seems reasonable.
Ted Goppert

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