30/07/2025
🐴 DID YOU KNOW… here at Florida Rescue Ranch our barefoot farrier, Wendy Jordan Apf-i, comes every two weeks to trim horses feet?
Are you asking yourself what is a barefoot farrier and what is the benefit of barefoot trimming?
Well at Florida Rescue Ranch, we believe in giving every animal the best chance to thrive — and that starts from the ground up. Literally.
A “Barefoot Farrier” is a farrier who specializes in trimming horses' hooves without using metal horseshoes, focusing on a trim that supports the horse's natural hoof form and function.
Here are some fun facts about barefoot trimming:
🐴Nature Knows Best – Horses in the wild don’t wear shoes. Barefoot trimming mimics the natural wear patterns of free-roaming horses.
🐴Healthier Hoof Structure – A properly trimmed barefoot hoof promotes stronger soles, healthier frogs, and better wall integrity.
🐴Improved Circulation – Without metal shoes, the hoof can flex more naturally, encouraging healthy blood flow and overall limb health.
🐴Better Balance – Barefoot horses tend to develop improved posture and body alignment thanks to natural hoof function.
🐴Less Concussion, More Shock Absorption – A barefoot hoof absorbs impact better, protecting joints, tendons, and ligaments.
🐴More Traction, Not Less – Barefoot horses can grip various terrain more efficiently due to their natural hoof textures — even in mud or on rocky trails.
🐴Fewer Hoof Infections – Without the nail holes and crevices that shoes can create, there’s less opportunity for bacteria to invade.
🐴Early Problem Detection – Regular barefoot trims allow farriers to spot and address imbalances or weaknesses before they become serious.
🐴No Nails, No Damage – Nailing on shoes can weaken the hoof wall over time. Barefoot keeps the structure intact and strong.
🐴Encourages Natural Movement – Hooves trimmed to a natural shape support better stride, self-cleaning mechanisms, and movement efficiency.
🐴Supports Rehab and Recovery – Barefoot trimming has been shown to help horses recover from laminitis, navicular issues, and hoof abscesses more naturally.
🐴Less Maintenance Costs – While trimming is still essential, barefoot horses don’t require costly shoeing every few weeks.
🐴Your Horse Feels More – And that’s a good thing! Sensory feedback through the hoof helps horses navigate terrain safely and confidently.
🐴Better for the Environment – No discarded metal shoes, fewer manufacturing resources — just nature doing its job.
🐴Every Hoof is Unique – Barefoot trimming is not one-size-fits-all. Each trim is tailored to the horse’s individual hoof structure, lifestyle, and movement patterns.
👉 Remember: Transitioning to barefoot requires time, patience, and a skilled farrier. But for many horses, it’s the most natural and healing path forward.
At Florida Rescue Ranch, barefoot trimming isn’t just a method — it’s a commitment to wellness from the ground up. 💚.
A HUGE thanks to Wendy Jordan Hoof Care for keeping our equines, here at Florida Rescue Ranch, Healthy and Sound. She helps them feel their best in every stage of their life🙏🙏🙏❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹.
