30/11/2025
December weather predictions are out, and it looks like we have cold and wet ahead. Its a good time for a winter trimming protocol review for myself and my wonderful hoof care clients:
* I work on rainy days, but not IN the rain. Obvious discomfort aside, my tools will rust in the rain. Nippers alone cost me $200+. Protecting my tools is one way I help control the cost of trims to my clients. I don't need a fancy barn, but I do need to work in a shelter that blocks rain.
* Your horse and I need a safe and appropriate
work surface. Mud, sand and other debris clog my rasp. A shelter full of mud and p**p is not conducive to a good trim. I do have to replace rasps every 20 or so horses ($29+ each), but mud can greatly reduce not only the life of the rasp, but my ability to leave good finishing work on your horses' hooves. I've tried in the past to trim on inappropriate surface, and not only does the horse struggle to stand his best, but each time the hoof plops back down in the mud or wet sand, we are starting back at square one picking/cleaning again. Its an unfair ask of the horse, and an unreasonable situation in which to do my best work.
* Imagine trying to chop vegetables with a newly sharpened knife, but the handle of the knife is covered in oil. Thats a bit of the stress I feel when horse's legs are covered in slippery wet mud. My gloves, chaps, pick get covered and the ability to do fine detail work is greatly diminished, as well as increasing the risk of injury. I carry towels in my truck for my clients who cannot be present for trims. I appreciate their trust and accommodation and assume the responsibility to prepping the horse for trims.
Where clients prefer to be present, the environment and horses should be ready for us to get to work. Amazon, dollar stores and even thrift stores are great places to pick up rags and towels to be designated for barn duty. ***Please wipe off mud, rather than hosing unless there is enough time before the appointment to dry the legs.***
* Older horses, horses that struggle with stiffness, or horses with previous injuries or arthritic change have a harder time in cold weather. I'm a huge fan of CBD from https://www.bravehorsecbd.com/ for these situations, but sometimes a little walk and some gentle stretching can help these horses warm up enough to stand comfortably. Horses are masters of compensation, and some discomfort may not be noticeable until we ask for something out of the normal every day motion- like standing prolonged on 3 legs. If you find your horse is struggling beyond what you are able to help them through, it might be a good time to discuss additional options for comfort with your vet.
I hope these tips give you some ideas for coping with the upcoming winter months. I do my best to stay on schedule and keep my costs low but as my cost goes up, so must my prices, so I appreciate all the help I get from you all. In the case of dangerous road conditions, we will work together on rescheduling routes.
