Re: Endurance Prospect(s) "Conformation/Paddling & Medical Considerations"

[Maggie Mieske <mmieske@netonecom.net>]

Dear Ruth,
I think it would be wise not to overlook the importance of a "farrier" check as
well... he can answer your questions about low heels, paddling, etc and if he
is your farrier and will be the one who will be working on his feet, that could
be a very important factor in your decision.  My gelding has low heels and low
angles (though they are improving) and I use him in endurance without any
problems.  We do keep shoes on him to protect what foot he does have...he tends
to break them if left barefoot too long.  One of those necessary evils.  But he
has done well this past year, never come up lame and his heel and angles are
improving.  It is an ongoing process and doesn't happen overnight.  Good luck!
Maggie

"Abair, Ruth" wrote:

> Dear Ridecampers,
>
> I have been earnestly looking for a youngster - endurance prospect - for
> some time now. I have passed up "several" colts, geldings and fillies/mares
> due to conformation and/or medical problems. My decisions were based upon a
> combination of consultations with my vet, the somewhat limited knowledge I
> have, and just good old "gut" feelings.
>
> I just recently found a young gelding - name's Baskin, he's 3 coming 4 -
> that I believe will "fill the bill" and eventually replace my steed/Classy.
> However; recent posts about "paddling" now has me in a quandry. What is
> "paddling?" Baskin's feet are very nice and round but he is low heeled in
> the front. It doesn't appear to interfere with his movement - travels
> straight/true - and doesn't appear to put too much of a slant on his
> pasterns, but we haven't gotten past the vet check yet. We're still
> negotiating price.
>
> I have never had a horse with low heels but have known and ridden with
> several people over the years that had horses with low heels. However,
> they/the horses were not used for endurance. Is this a potential problem,
> and again, what is paddling?
>
> I would appreciate your advice and counsel.
>
> Ruth Abair and Classy in NE Texas
>
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