HoofSavvy does not emphasize rigid techniques or methodology over the welfare of the horse. A hoofman’s job is not to out think mother nature. There are many theories, methods, and techniques out there, which can help some horses while not helping others. Much contradiction and confusion plagues this “business” of hoof balance. Let us consider that the “business” part can sometimes get in the way of justice for the horse. Balance is relative. It is an ongoing process in the mind and in the body as well as the hoof. With every step the body is constantly readjusting to balance. Imagine what happens when you add tack and rider, not to mention terrain, and job to be done. All of this transfers to the feet. The rider has a huge impact and must learn to ride in harmony with the foot falls. In order to “serve the horse with justice” many variables must be considered when addressing the foundation. Stop looking only at the hoof.

When assessing, adapting, and applying a trim that will assist the horse to wellness and excellence, the whole horse must be contemplated. The same applies when considering shoes for the horse. “To shoe or not to shoe?” This too is relative. True hoofmen strive to assist the horse in growing the best hoof genetically possible. HoofSavvy develops the “hoofman’s eye.” The hoofman’s eye enables hoofman to “see” what the horse is communicating so they can asses, adapt, and apply whatever is needed for the horse’s unique situation. The “eye” is the combination of everything learned and experienced and then forgotten—freeing the hoofman to do whatever is necessary without forcing a shape or methodology.

Many people are frustrated by the controversy that surrounds equine feet. When frustration turns into fascination the “eye” is opened, granting the freedom of utilizing all forms, therefore becoming formless. A hoofman must allow the horse to have the final say in the matter. The horse does not care what is politically correct or socially acceptable, he needs appropriate results. The result is “HoofSavvy.”

*Be Well HoofSavvy Foundation Course I:

Assess   Adapt   Apply

-Justice for Horse and Human
-Safety
-Harmonious Equine Interaction
-Equine’s Circle of Influence
-Posture/Confirmation/ Imbalances
-Teeth, Musculoskeletal System, and Hoof Co-relation
-Static Position vs. Dynamic Motion
-Natural Crookedness/ Left and Right Handedness
-Wear Patterns/Weight load distribution
-Shortening and Lengthening of Muscles
-Basic Anatomy/Kinetics
-Trim Philosophy
-Adapting/Applying Trim
-Lameness Prevention

*Be Well HoofSavvy Progress Course II:

-Progressive Refinement of Foundation Course I
-Adapted to Students Level of Proficiency, Individual Needs and Interests
-Subject to Instructor’s Discretion

*Topics of Interest can Include:

-Pathology
-Advanced Anatomy
-Dissections
-Basic to Advanced HoofSavvy Shoeing Techniques