Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Hoof Clinics

Hot Topic: What trim style do we demonstrate at our Healthy Hoof Clinics?

Q: How is this clinic any different from other barefoot clinics?

A: This clinic is uniquely our own, it is our own vision and our own experiences - something you simply cannot find elsewhere. The presentation was prepared by us from scratch, in our own words, using our own photographs and videos. We have studied many different sources, and learned the details of barefoot horse care and trimming (both extreme rehabilitative, as well as conservative practical techniques) from some of the greatest teachers alive today, and we share this all with you. We believe prevention is the key, and that developing sound, barefoot riding and performance horses is paramount. In this clinic, we will share what we have learned, through years of simple hands-on daily experience, what constitutes a healthy hoof, and why. We will try to educate your eye and stimulate your mind. You won't hear only theory -- and our theories are backed up by results. Mostly, we present practical information that you can use in your own life. We won't tell you what you have to think or what you "should" do. Instead, we will share the techniques that have worked for us - much of this info discovered after lots of sweat, trial and error. We'll tell you the truth about barefoot, from our own point of view. While our emphasis is on bare hooves, we welcome the non-barefoot also -- a healthy hoof applies, no matter what the hoof wears. We are also serious riders, so we understand hoof care from a rider’s perspective.

Q: What method do you teach in this clinic?

A: We have found the wild horse model to be our major source of inspiration and direction. Utilizing that, our "method" is a barefoot trimming method focused on creating a sound riding horse with improvement of hoof form over time. Actually, we like to say that we don't have a "method." Certainly we have a "style" - our own unique style, as does every single person who trims. But "method" is a label, and we'd like to take barefoot hoofcare beyond labels. We feel that tactful, educated, experienced barefoot hoofcare techniques are all evolving towards a similar place. We have quietly observed different methods for many years, and see more in common than not. Modern barefoot has grown from a very few sources, and everyone interacts and borrows from each other. That is the way of progress - for the benefit of the horse. Farriers are applying mustang rolls on hooves, Strasser trimmers are watching for heel-first landings, wild horse trimmers are noting hairline angles - we can all share information and ideas and utilize what works well. Every situation requires different tools - and the more you have in your toolkit, the better you can provide for your horses. We have learned from every group, and we continue to learn every day.

But maybe the real question is, do we teach an extreme or aggressive form of trimming? The answer is no. We don't teach rehabilitative type trimming in this clinic, and our main focus is on riding horses. Our emphasis is on keeping the horse sound. As little hoof is removed during a trim as is possible -- but the real key is knowing exactly what to remove (or what NOT to remove) and how to do so. Details are of utmost importance!

We think everyone, from any hoofcare system or method, will find the ideas in our clinic useful, constructive and thought-provoking. We do present some of our very own new and unique material. We are trying to broaden the whole barefoot world, open the doors to communication between us all, and hopefully bring our message to the wider audience of the general equestrian public.

Q: Is this a "how-to" clinic? Will I learn how to trim my own horse in this clinic?

A: This is actually a "how to recognize a healthy hoof" clinic. The way we have arranged the material should provide plenty of interest for both a beginner, as well as a professional trimmer. As such, yes - there will be plenty of "how-to" trimming information presented, as examples of the approach we advocate, and to provide more details for experienced trimmers. To a beginner, the "how-to" info may appear deceptively simple, because the basic techniques of trimming are actually relatively simple. What we can't teach in a weekend is the complex decision-making process that goes along with each and every trim - as all professionals are well-aware of!

As an option at some clinics, we do allow a limited number of professionals and experienced owners to bring and trim their own horses under James' tutelage. We don't teach total beginners to trim in this clinic, simply because it does require a bit more time than this. What a beginner will (hopefully) walk away with is the knowledge to make good decisions about whether their horse's hooves are healthy and are receiving a constructive trim.

For the details on hosting a Healthy Hoof Clinic, please contact editor@thehorseshoof.com or call our Toll-free Message Phone: 1-877-594-3365

Click on the links below for details:

What is a Healthy Hoof Clinic?

Who are James & Yvonne Welz?

Where can I attend a Healthy Hoof Clinic?

How can I host a Healthy Hoof Clinic in my area?

Register for a Clinic!

The Horse's Hoof Clinics

Hot Topic: What trim style do we demonstrate at our Healthy Hoof Clinics?