Common Solutions:
1. Thrush is totally treated by practicing good "hoof hygiene." A pick a day will be a very small price to pay. Advance cases of thrush are life threatening to your horse.
2. Weak, "brittle" foot cracking can be helped by adding a water-based hoof dressing. Weak, "soft" feet can be improved by using hoof hardening conditioners. Some cases may benefit from on oil-based hoof dressing that acts as a repellent of water.
3. Sole bruising is a remedy for "Father Time." Rest is its only cure. Hoof padding under shoes is not a cure, but a prevention. Pads provide protection against potential bruising. Pads may have extreme negative effects if put on an existing bruised horse.
4. Interfering limbs can be helped with improved riding skill, conditioning of horse, and routine farrier work. Protective boots are recommended during these times of need.

When to Call A Farrier:
Generally, most horses, whether shod or not, should have the farrier call on them routinely. Most farriers recommend anywhere from 6-8 weeks varying among each horse each season. Most healthy horses can be barefoot if they are in a controlled environment. Some may need shoes for any of these reasons:
1. weak hooves (protection)
2. weak hoof / pastern angles (support)
3. the job of the horse (performance).
A good farrier should also consider this:
1. what science wants (for soundness)
2. what the rider wants (for performance)
3. what the horse wants (for a lifetime of humane horseshoeing and handling in general).

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