The Horse's Hoof: Barefoot News

Includes general barefoot news around the world: Who's talking about barefoot? And who's doing something with barefoot horses?

Available everywhere April 29, 2008: Joe Camp's book, The Soul of a Horse, Life Lessons from the Herd

Dr. Robert Miller, a Western Hall of Fame vet said: "I read The Soul of a Horse and I see the soul of a man. I am absolutely captivated."

“Lately I have read a number of books that seek to explain and satisfy the human yen to connect physically, emotionally and even spiritually with the horse. And yet The Soul of a Horse is the only one I’ve come across that speaks with a totally resounding note of truth. Coincidentally (or not?) it’s also the only one I’ve read that is written with the unflinching insight that a deep and satisfying connection with another individual – human or otherwise – requires us to set aside our own aspirations, expectations and needs in order to clearly understand those of the other. A delightful blend of autobiography, critical analysis and storytelling, this book engages the reader intellectually and emotionally from start to finish.”
Ysabelle Dean, Vice President - Australian Equine Barefoot Movement (AEBM) Inc, Instructor, Associate Clinician, Australian Equine Arts

Houston Chronicle article on the (barefoot) Houston Mounted Patrol and their horses:

April 25, 2008: "This month, the last of the horses will have their metal shoes taken off and their hooves trimmed as part of the Barefoot Program, which makes the animals happier and healthier, plus it saves the department money in farrier bills. The success of HPD's Barefoot Program of hoof care has become a model for departments across the country."

September 25, 26, & 27, 2008:
World Conference 2008 for Natural Hoofcare and Holistic Horse Care
Dr. Hiltrud Strasser, Tuebingen, Germany

Conference speakers include Dr. Robert Bowker and Alexander Nevzorov - see program for complete listing!

For German-speaking readers:
In Kürze erhältlich für die Öffentlichkeit!
Deutsche Übersetzung der Offizielle Trimmregeln der AANHCP (Association for the Advancement of Natural Horse Care Practices)
Hier ist das neue, umfassende offizielle Trainingshandbuch, das von Studenten der AANHCP in den Natural Trim Workshops benutzt wird. Es enthält die gegenwärtig gültige Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung für den original Wildpferdetrimm gemäß seinem Urheber, Jaime Jackson. Aus dem Inhalt: eine neue Methode, um Sohlenstärke zu prüfen, das Trimmen von Esel- und Mulihufen, das Trimmen von Hufen mit extremer Kapselverformung (durch chronische Rehe, P3-Rotation, Pantoffelhuf), Trimmbeschränkungen, Datenmeßformular, und vieles mehr. Diese Anleitung wird empfohlen für diejenigen, die bereits Jaime Jacksons Buch, The Horse Owners Guide to Natural Hoof Care, gelesen haben. Ein MUSS für jeden ernsthaften Trimmer. Diese benutzerfreundliche Anleitung hat eine Spiralbindung für den praktischen Gebrauch im Feld oder in Workshops und viele klare Fotos.
Anfragen für die deutsche Ausgabe bitte an: Gudrun Buchhofer, email: gudrun @ go-natural.ca

Don't miss the Reno Symposium for the Humane and Natural Care of Horses!
February 24th-26th, 2008 in Reno, Nevada
An extraordinary three day forum featuring a stellar line-up of the world’s foremost experts in their fields, sharing new, unpublished, cutting-edge information of vital importance to your horse’s well-being and performance.
For more info or to sign up, visit http://www.aanhcp.net
Download a PDF flyer here: http://www.aanhcp.net/AANHCP.pdf
Link to Symposium schedule of events (PDF): http://www.aanhcp.net/PubConPF.pdf

December 2007 Horse & Rider Magazine: 7 page Barefoot Article featured!
Horse & Rider features a 7 page interview with Pete Ramey on the Benefits of Barefoot. This Q & A style article covers just about all the basics of going barefoot, including answers to the most common and important questions. Click here for Horse & Rider website, or pick up a copy at your newsstand today.

"The Soul of a Horse, Life Lessons from the Herd" by Joe Camp - Read about Joe’s new book coming April 29, 2008 from Random House’s Crown/Harmony at http://www.theSoulofaHorse.com

Empty stalls and naked feet…that’s the heart of the message that Joe Camp is trying to spread to all the horse lovers of the world.
And even if Joe’s name didn’t ring a bell, you probably know who he is: remember Benji, that canine superstar who pulled on our heartstrings? Is it any wonder that the man who created the Benji movies would find that special connection to horses that draws one towards natural horse care?

A lifelong animal lover, Joe entered the horse world quite recently. His fresh eyes soon scrutinized traditional horse care practices. His compelling story is best told in his own words, available soon in his upcoming new book.—Yvonne Welz

“The Soul of a Horse is beautiful. As I read it, I kept needing to go outside to pet Smokey; not for his sake, but for mine (actually the best place to read it would be sitting in the middle of a pasture full of horses). Everyone who reads this book will laugh a little, cry a little, and think a lot; about the horse, about mankind, and about themselves. Some will be angry, some will be sad. Others will jump for joy that this story was told. But this is the case with any Truth. In the end The Soul of a Horse will pave the road to a better world for our beloved horses. At the same time I do believe this “hard look in the mirror” will make the world a little better for people, too.”
Pete Ramey
Author, Clinician, Hoof Rehabilitation Specialist

SuperHoof.org
An Online Community in Support of the Barefoot Horse. Hoof rehab success stories, barefoot trimmers directory, barefoot horse resources, registered users can post their own case studies. Open to all methods.
http://www.superhoof.org

Equi-Spirit™ Toys and Tools
Let Your Horse Play---The Natural Way
Hours of Fun with Extremely Durable, Safe, and Affordable Toys and Horse Training Balls for Equines of all Sizes
http://www.naturalhorsetalk.com/horsetoys.html

Boot Resource for Europe: Hufshop is Now EasyCare's Exclusive Distributor in Germany
August 23, 2007: EasyCare, Inc. has selected Hufshop as the new German distributor for all EasyCare hoof boot items. The Hufshop will carry the full line of hoof boots manufactured by EasyCare and will include Easyboot, Easyboot Epics, Easyboot Bares, Easyboot Grips, Old Mac's, Boa Horse Boots, EasySoakers, Comfort Pads and the majority of each hoof boots' accessories. The Hufshop was established in 1999 by Claudia Baldauf-Jung and Bernd Jung. Both have been using hoof boots since 1994. They are committed to helping customers find the best hoof boot for their horse.
The Hufshop already has both dealer and consumer websites in place. Please visit the Hufshop website at http://www.hufshop.de/ or http://www.hoofshop.com/ for more details.

It was quite a surprise to see a natural hoof care article featured on the cover of the July 2007 Western Horseman Magazine. The article by Heidi Nyland, “Barefoot Every Day: Is It Right for Your Horse?” features master farrier Gene Ovnicek describing the benefits of barefoot. Accompanying photos clearly demonstrate that desired heel-first landing. Gene suggests that even shod horses should spend part of the year barefoot (and he does utilize his own specialty shoes). Environment and daily care are emphasized as crucial components of barefoot success, and Gene finishes with this recommendation, “It’s not just about taking off your horse’s shoes. Ride your horse as much as you can. That’s the best maintenance.”

Dr. Robert M. Bowker Joins Pete Ramey Clinic in Valley Center, California, in November, 2007 -- To Be Ramey's Last Clinic Anywhere for at Least Two Years
Robert M. Bowker VMD, PhD, Professor of Anatomy, Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine to host Two-Day Hoof Care Clinic after Ramey. Ramey, World Renowned Hoof Care Specialist will be taking two years off for research and writing after this clinic. Scheduled dates are November 10 - 13th. Clinic hosted by Joe Camp, creator of Benji, the canine superstar. Click here for more details.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NATURAL HOOF CARE PRACTITIONERS
“CLUSTER CLINIC” - SIX CONCURRENT ACCREDITED CLINICS
When: September 21 – 26, 2007
Where: Warrenton, Missouri (about 45 minutes west of St. Louis)
Considering a career in hoof care or just want to know more about the natural hoof care movement? This is a great opportunity to jump start your education.
September 21: Jaime Jackson, Introduction to Natural Trimming and the Wild Horse Model Clinic.
September 22: Richard Drewry, Horse Boot Clinic.
September 22, PM: Neal Valk, DVM, Veterinary Affairs Orientation Clinic.
September 23: Neal Valk, DVM, Introduction To Natural Hoof Care Clinic. (This clinic is specifically
designed for veterinarians.)
September 23 & 24 AM: Bruce Nock, Ph.D., Lifeway and the Natural Hoof Clinic.
September 24 PM, 25 & 26: Ann Corso, Natural Trim Workshop.
Clinic Attendance Is Limited To Registered Participants
Click here for PDF flyer with registration instructions.

September 7 - 9, 2007
An on-line three day event, attend from the comfort of your own home!
Natural Animal World Convention (NAWC)
Inspiring Minds. Empowering Choices. Integrating Ideas.
Features over 22 holistic animal experts including veterinarians, animal health care providers, published authors and media personalities.
Includes workshops on natural horse care and natural hoof care. There is so much valuable information, Continuing Education Credits offered from the American Veterinary Naturopathic Association.
www.naturalanimalworldconvention.org Registration materials, speakers, classes, sponsorship and vendor opportunities are readily available at the website.

Bowker Clinic Dates
Don’t miss your chance to see Robert M. Bowker, VMD, PhD, of Michigan State University Equine Foot Laboratory presenting his 2-day clinic: “The Equine Foot for the 21st Century.” Once again, he’s teaming up with Pete Ramey’s clinics, and they will be presenting on the following dates:
Hamburg, Pennsylvania
Pete Ramey: June 9 & 10, 2007
Dr. Robert Bowker: June 11 & 12
Hampshire, Illinois
Pete Ramey: July 7 & 8, 2007
Dr. Robert Bowker: July 9 & 10
Ft. Collins, Colorado (Colorado State Univ.)
Pete Ramey: August 4 & 5, 2007
Dr. Robert Bowker: August 6 & 7
Check out Pete Ramey’s complete clinic listing at http://www.hoofrehab.com/clinic_schedule_2007.htm and notice that he’s also got several clinics scheduled with Kathryn Watts of safergrass.org.

Tucson, Arizona March 29, 2007: EasyCare has developed an exciting new hoof boot system that allows anyone to custom design a horse boot. Users will be able to choose the fastening system, pick the tread pattern, back strap system, and designate the size to create a boot that’s right for their horse. Each boot will come with the Easyboot Gaiter attached.

The Easyboot Custom can be built and ordered using the EasyCare interactive boot builder module on the EasyCare website at this link. The “Build Your Own Boot System” is currently only available to customers in the United States. EasyCare is planning to expand the program to include international customers.

Each Easyboot Custom will cost $75.00 regardless of size or custom selections. A $10.00 shipping fee will be added to the cost of each boot. The shipping fee will cover FedEx shipping fees from EasyCare’s manufacturing facility in Asia. Please allow up to three weeks for delivery.

Natural hoof care featured on TV - premiered Tuesday March 6th.
RFD TV, Channel 9409 on Dish Network, Channel 379 on Direct TV
March 6th, 2007 - Show 127 - “Natural Hoof Care with Pete Ramey” - Clinton gets a visit with Pete Ramey, World Renown Natural Hoof Care Specialist. Brand new episode!
Don't worry if you missed it - you can also buy the DVDs (part 1 and part 2) on Clinton Anderson's website, click here for link.
Natural Hoof Care with Pete Ramey 2 - Show 127 $19.99
"The first Pete Ramey episode is one of our best sellers - this episode is sure to surpass it in popularity! Once again, Pete explains how the practice of Natural Hoof Care has taught horseowners and farriers alike. With more technical information, including corrective trimming, this is the natural hoof care DVD you won't want to be without! 1 hr DVD."

NEW "Online Hoofcare 100" - 7 month self study course
New cutting edge Online Hoofcare Program. Self study with 7 Modules of Equine Hoofcare learning. 9 months of online access
A first in online Hoofcare training. Online and at your fingertips without leaving home. Sign up is available immediately starting each month.
A great program for veterinarians and horse owners who are interested in the best of Equine Hoofcare theory but not interested in the trade of trimming. Also available, Equine Hoofcare Professional (EHP) 9 month certificate program. Registered school. Details at http://www.internationalcenterforequinearts.com

February 2007
Newsflash! Two Barefoot Dressage horses score 70's at Arizona Dressage Association February Fling Show! Click here for photos...

PRESS RELEASE Lantry, SD...February 6th 2007
ISPMB (International Society for the Protection of Mustangs and Burros) adopted 11 stallions from the West Douglas Creek Herd Area in Colorado. Eight of whom are over the age of 20. ISPMB's president, Karen Sussman said, "The Herd will be zeroed out by 2008 and these horses will no longer run free in Colorado where they have roamed for over two centuries." Although SD is facing one of the worst droughts in its history, ISPMB made the decision to take the stallions before they were scheduled to be castrated on January 11th. Sussman said it would have been a loss of a critical gene pool with these aged stallions who had been free the majority of their lives and retain tremendous herd wisdom. Another 18 mares and 6 foals will eventually be adopted and placed with the stallions from whom they were separated after the capture. It is the organizations plan to
remove 20 West Douglas horses from holding pastures in the Midwest and renuite these horses with the herd.

The horses were scheduled to roam free on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation but plans changed quickly in early November with a sudden change of Tribal leadership. ISPMB's conservation program, managing threatened and endangered wild horse herds began in 1999 and the organization manages three herds and a fouth herd is under the management of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.
For more information on how you can help please check our web site www.ispmb.org
Attached is the article in the Star Tribune, Minneapolis http://www.startribune.com/389/story/989377.html Please check the photo and video gallery.

The AANHCP leadership wishes to announce a special event that will take place April 20th - April 25th in Warrenton, MO (near St. Louis). All of our association Orientation Clinicians will converge to hold a "Group Clinic
Series" at the same time and location.

This event is already shaping up to be a "mini Conference" and Outreach Clinic rolled into one. You will be able to meet the AANHCP leadership, members of OCC, many of our regional Field Instructors, students, and regional horse owners.

Highlights from the Tucson Clinics
EasyCare Inc. sponsored this unforgettable Tucson clinic series. Jan. 20 & 21 was Pete Ramey’s clinic; On Jan. 22, EasyCare provided a Hoof Boot Fitting Clinic; Jan. 23 & 24 featured Robert M. Bowker, VMD, PhD, of the Michigan State Univ. Equine Foot Laboratory, presenting his 2 day clinic for the very first time. Click here to read all about it!

The Perfect Hoof Club launched by KC & Robyn La Pierre
NOW FREE!!! The Perfect Hoof Club is a monthly FREE membership subscription designed to enhance any hoof care regime. Whether you are a seasoned farrier, or a first time horse owner, the PHC offers fresh and innovative ways that will enhance any program you are practicing. Each month, subscribers can choose to receive a DVD chock full of information, as well download an informative newsletter. This newsletter will include articles from Dr. KC La Pierre, top trainers, nutritionists, veterinarians, celebrity women in the industry, and Equine Podiatrists practicing in the field today. Members will also have access to an exclusive message board.
For more information on joining the Perfect Hoof Club, visit: http://theperfecthoof.com

Tucson, AZ – December 21, 2006. We are pleased to announce the list of winners in the 2006 EasyCare $10,000.00 Hoof Boot Contest, which ended on November 30, 2006. These riders did a great job and worked really hard to achieve their successes and we’re really proud of them. They completed rides ranging from the Tevis Cup, the NSW State Championship 100, and 5 day 250 mile multiday rides like Bryce, Grand Canyon and Shahzada.

# Name Mileage Amount Won
1 Dave Rabe 1,715 $4,000.00
2 Becky Hackworth 875 $2,000.00
3 Sue Benson 575 $1,000.00
4 Carol Layton 500 $750.00
5 Joyce Stoffey 375 $650.00
6 Terry Banister 365 $550.00
7 Duncan McLaughlin 350 $450.00
8 Kerry Greear 310 $350.00
9 Corry Clinton 275 $150.00
10 Marilyn Weise 220 $100.00

Dave Rabe finished first in the contest two years in a row and has this to say about using boots on his now barefoot horses: “The Easyboot Epics and Bares that I used this year worked better than I ever imagined possible. They were excellent and worked really well for my horses. I had my shoer trim my horses every few weeks. This was way better for my horses; their hoof walls are stronger. The boots were a lot easier to use than I thought they would be, and they held up extremely well. I never had any problem with the gaiters all year.

“I thought the Bares were awesome, no worry about buckles. My horses travel just as well in the boots as they do with shoes on, and they are much better off being barefoot. My horses are kept in a 10 acre pasture with some rocks, and they do just as well barefoot as they did with shoes on. Thanks EasyCare for having the hoof boot contest! I think your boots are the best thing on the market by far and haven’t seen anything even close."

Information on the 2007 Contest: EasyCare will award a total of $10,000 to the riders who complete the most American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) or Australian Endurance Rider Association (AERA) miles during the 2007 AERC ride season (Dec. 1-Nov. 30) using two or four EasyCare hoof boots. Throughout the year, special promotions and discounts will be made available to those participating in the EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest. Entry forms and more information can be obtained at: http://www.easycareinc.com/Cool_Stuff/Contest.aspx

EasyCare, Inc. has been a leader in the hoof boot industry for years, beginning with the invention of the Easyboot back in the early 70’s. Since then, the need for boots has grown tremendously, as more and more horse owners see the healthy advantages of pulling shoes and switching to natural hoof care. EasyCare is excited about being part of this growing trend. For more information about hoof boots or natural hoof care, please call EasyCare, Inc. at 1-800-447-8836, e-mail: admin@easycareinc.com or visit our website at www.easycareinc.com.

Press Release - Breaking Traditions - to Affect a Paradigm Shift in Horse Care
As of December 9, 2006, the Strasser Hoofcare Professionals of North America are proud to announce the formation of a new association: Equine Soundness Association!

The Equine Soundness Association (ESA) has been formed with every SHP in mind, former and present, as we are all connected by our desire to touch as many horses’ lives as possible. This is the beginning of a new era for Strasser Hoofcare Practitioners in North America, a new way of operating with a spirit of inclusiveness and cooperation.

The Equine Soundness Association (ESA) has formed four program committees and an executive board. Each committee is designed to provide input and directions for our North American SHP’s and to extend our outreach towards the education of horse owners through additional programs.

Proposed as part of ESA’s new strategic Commitment to Excellence plan, the program committees will be composed of - Education, Public Relations, Human Resources, and Secretarial committee chairs.

The Board of Directors meetings are on the 2nd Thursday of every month after 7:30 pm Pacific time, via. conference call. Their first meeting will be held in January 2007. As part of their work, the committees will review methods of allowing varied educational opportunities. They will overview the activities and job descriptions of all newly formed committees, suggest committee formation in new or unaddressed program areas, as well as begin program priorities for soliciting annual research, group insurance, conference participation, and new web-site programming.

Our members believe that the work and guidance of the new committees will result in the smoothed operations of our country management, allow the highest professional value by contributing and assisting in the knowledge of the horse by the transformation of equine husbandry into a more conscious, healthy, compassionate state of being.

Latest barefoot in the equestrian media: Horse & Rider Magazine, December 2006: Page 76, "New Ways to Beat Laminitis" features alternative methods of treatment, including natural hoof trimming, booting with pads, movement instead of stall-rest, dietary sugar reduction, supplements, acupuncture & homeopathy. Wow! What a refreshing article! Features fantastic advice from Pete Ramey and veterinarian Dr. Joyce Harman. Pete Ramey provided before & after photos and x-rays of some founder cases. This article exposes the general public to the simple, sensible strategies that can ultimately save many horses.

Get a Grip! A new boot from Easycare. EasyCare recently held a contest to come up with a name for their new hoof boot design. More than 900 name suggestions were submitted. The winner of the Name the Boot Contest is Helen Elsner who will receive a $100 gift certificate from EasyCare and a set of four Easyboot Grip boots.

The new Easyboot Grip hoof boot will have a more aggressive tread and is suited for use in wet conditions where a more aggressive tread pattern may be warranted including rain, mud, snow and wet grass. The new boot is expected to be available at the beginning of 2007. More info: http://www.easycareinc.com/Newsroom/press_releases/get_a_grip.aspx

Barefoot Eventing: Tyler DeRoo and his barefoot horse Royal Code completed the Kentucky Classic CIC** Horse Trials, finishing 19th, with a clean cross-country round. http://www.naturalhorsetrim.com/Section_23.htm

The International Institute of Equine Podiatry, and KC La Pierre, RJF, MEP, PhD, are proud to announce that Post University of Waterbury, Connecticut, has accepted their new science of Applied Equine Podiatry into their Four Year Equine Management Degree Program. For more information about the degree program, log on to: www.post.edu For more information about KC or IIEP, Inc., log on to: www.equinepodiatry.net

“Dang good trimmer registry” initiated by Pete Ramey
Imagine this: a registry of competent hoof care professionals succeeding in the field, from all over the world (including folks from all different backgrounds and training, inside or outside the AANHCP), who are willing to be teachers, and do mini-mentorships and hands-on clinics with horseowners. Pete envisions that this may grow into a membership organization similar to the AFA. To get this started, he's asking willing professionals to send in case studies and videos of their work.
All the details are here: http://www.hoofrehab.com/trimmers.htm
Or go to www.hoofrehab.com and click on "Find Experienced Help in Your Area"
Email: americanhoofassociation @ windstream.net
Quote from Pete's site:
"Anyone from inside or outside the AANHCP is welcome to apply. The "school of hard knocks" will be most respected, here. We’re definitely not looking for “Pete clones” (in fact Pete hopes and expects to learn from the videos and pictures), but we do want to ensure this list includes only the most competent, experienced hoofcare professionals who are succeeding in the field, can communicate and are willing/able to teach competent hoof trimming at home (within their clientele) and/or travel to the horse owners in need of intense "hands-on" clinics."

The Perfect Hoof Club launched by KC & Robyn La Pierre
The Perfect Hoof Club is a monthly membership subscription designed to enhance any hoof care regime. Whether you are a seasoned farrier, or a first time horse owner, the PHC offers fresh and innovative ways that will enhance any program you are practicing. Each month, subscribers will receive a DVD chock full of information, as well as an informative newsletter. This newsletter will include articles from Dr. KC La Pierre, top trainers, nutritionists, veterinarians, celebrity women in the industry, and Equine Podiatrists practicing in the field today. Members will also have access to an exclusive message board.
For more information on joining the Perfect Hoof Club, visit: http://theperfecthoof.com

Blogs from EasyCare:

From the Horse's Mouth
http://easycareinc.typepad.com/from_the_horses_mouth
authored by EasyCare, Inc. President Garrett Ford. This is about the behind the scene development of hoof boots, stories of his personal horses and the latest EasyCare happenings.

EasyCare Help Desk
http://easycareinc.typepad.com/customer_help_desk
authored by Customer Service Representative Donna Derby. This blog covers customers‚ most frequently asked questions.

Karen's EasyCare & Endurance Musings
http://easycareinc.typepad.com/karen
authored by Director of Marketing Karen Chaton. This is about Karen's horses, endurance riding and EasyCare.

Q&A with The Vet
http://easycareinc.typepad.com/ask_the_vet_tomas_teskey
authored by Tomas Teskey, DVM. This blog is a resource for horse owners, allowing them to ask an expert questions about natural hoofcare.

"Oregon School of Natural Hoof Care," New School of Natural Trimming in Jacksonville, Oregon
A school that is all-inclusive: Information on trimming methods, wound care, equine sports medicine, diet, laminitis, founder, and all types of hooves, lodging, food, tools and skill building. The school is not associated with a particular clinician name, but will teach some of the methods that the current leaders in the care of hooves teach. Daily hands-on learning school with a skilled staff of instructors. Week-long classes limited to 15 students. School is held in a resort-like environment with campfires, waterfalls and mountain pleasure. Family members, horses and pets are welcome. Cost is all inclusive: $1,000. provides onsite lodging, food, all tools to get started in hoof care: 2 knives, rasp, sharpener, angle grinder, arm guards, gloves, safety glasses, rubber bucket for tools, school materials.
More Info at: http://www.abchoofcare.com

EPA(UK) Launched
In response to a growing interest in keeping horses barefoot, the Equine Podiatry Association (UK) was launched at the beginning of May, 2006, as an independent, self-regulating professional body promoting shoeless hoofcare techniques. The Association aims to regulate and support Equine Podiatrists (EPs) and their clients, promoting responsible shoeless hoofcare and providing information to anybody wishing to find out more about Applied Equine Podiatry.

EPs are highly trained specialists in shoeless hoofcare who work closely with owners to achieve the healthiest hooves possible for their horses. Their work is based on a detailed scientific model of how the hoof functions. The service provided by EPs includes a specialist trim which is non-invasive and places the comfort of the horse as the first priority. EPs also aim to educate owners so that they can understand the different factors that influence the health of the hoof and provide close support and guidance as the horse's hooves change.

The EPA(UK) will ensure that all registered EPs continue to develop their knowledge, promoting good practice, maintaining high standards of professional competence and providing a means of redress to any client who feels that he or she has a grievance with a member of the Association. It will also encourage further evidence-based research on the equine hoof, dissemination of the results of that research and act as a consultative body in the science of Equine Podiatry.

You can log onto the website http://www.epauk.org for more information or to find a registered Equine Podiatrist in your area.

Pete Ramey's Two Day Hoof Clinics approved for vet continuing education!

Course meets the requirements for 20.00 hours of continuing education credit for veterinarians and 20.00 hours of continuing education credit for veterinary technicians in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB's RACE approval program, including California. Veterinarians please pre-register by email at hoofrehab @ alltel.net to receive CE credit and the CE Study Guide. http://hoofrehab.com

Australian Equine Barefoot Movement Inc (AEBM) releases DVD "Barefoot - That's Me!"

Made with the aim to inspire and encourage barefoot (and would-be barefoot) horse owners around the world, “Barefoot – That’s me!” traces the journey of the Australian Equine Barefoot Movement Inc from its beginnings in 2002, culminating in the triumph of taking part barefoot and bitless in a local event known as the Riding of the Bounds, at which the AEBM won praise from other riders and won a trophy for Best Presented Group.

The story tells how a bunch of like-minded people got together to seek expert help from overseas to rehabilitate their horses from the damage caused by horseshoes, and went on to form what is still the only non-denominational non-profit barefoot association in Australia, an organization with a mission statement to promote and provide quality information to horse owners about the health and welfare advantages of a natural “iron free” lifestyle for horses. The DVD includes an interview with Julie Leitl, qualified hoofcare specialist, and information about natural lifestyle and riding bitless...

Barefoot Arab, TBR Granite Chief+/, Earns AHA 2005 Distance Horse of the Year Award, click here for more details.

From the Associated Press 2/9/06 - "Derby prospects in action this weekend" quote:
Notes: San Rafael winner Brother Derek galloped 11�2 miles without shoes for trainer Dan Hendricks. “He trains without shoes and he’s worn glue-on shoes since Del Mar to allow his feet to air out and expand naturally,” the trainer said. The colt’s next start will be in the Santa Catalina on March 4.

Also from CBS Cportsline 2/7/06 - "Brother Derek the target now" quote:
Since last summer, it has been standard practice for Brother Derek to train without shoes.

Barefoot in the equestrian media: Suddenly we are the hot new topic in all the major equine publications! An overnight sensation - that has been a decade in the making? We've got mixed reviews for the latest batch of barefoot articles:

Horse & Rider Magazine, February 2006: Page 50, "Is Barefoot Better? A growing contingent of hoof-care experts says yes. Here's what the natural-foot movement could mean for your horse." This 8-page feature article with full photos is a wonderful presentation of barefoot for the general horse public. This western-style riding magazine boasts a paid circulation of 168,575. The general overview and positive stance of the article are exciting... however there is one small problem with the article: the historical error of the omission of Dr. Hiltrud Strasser, both in the development of the barefoot movement in the USA, and in any sort of overview of the Strasser Method and its basic philosophy as a total horse care program. The only mention was extremely negative, with a strange reference in parentheses that vaguely warns readers that the Strasser trim is invasive and should be avoided. Why? What is a Strasser trim? What is all the secrecy about? Why would experts promoting their own brand of hoofcare be allowed to warn against someone else's (competing) method? There is no explanation given. We hope the hanging questions will be answered in an upcoming issue, with interviews featuring those representing the Strasser Method -- for unbiased journalism's sake. Those of us that witnessed the exciting birth of the barefoot horse care movement know that Jaime Jackson together with Dr. Hiltrud Strasser are responsible for starting it all, in this country. Everyone else came after them, and we all owe these two people so very much.

The Horse, Your Guide to Equine Health Care, March 2006: Page 34, AAEP Forum by Dr. Stephen O'Grady, "Barefoot Horses." Thumbs up for Dr. O'Grady, "I must say from the onset that I favor horses being maintained without shoes when possible." That's all we need to know. Of course, he still lists the caveat that horses need shoes to protect from excessive wear, for traction, for therapeutic reasons, ya de ya de ya. That's okay with us, because over time, it is going to be really interesting how many horses develop super bare feet, that, for some reason, just don't have excessive wear (and how many barefoot endurance horses are there now?). They must be a special new breed (we barefoot people will just smile). As long as everyone agrees - if it works, it works. That's all we really need to know.

Horse Journal, March 2006: Thumbs down to the article on Page 11, "Taking Natural Too Far, The movement toward natural horse care is a good idea gone too far. Caveat emptor." Among their "myths" listed include the notion that barefoot is better -- "A hefty dose of common sense will tell you that horseshoes don't make feet numb, that the heart is the center of circulation (not the foot), and that the dimensions and angles observed on 14-hand wild horses ranging free over rocky terrain are exactly that -- findings appropriate for 14-hand wild horses ranging free over rocky terrain." Is this really saying, why bother with science when common sense explains the inner workings of the hoof? Huh? What happened to: we don't really know how the hoof works, and we have a lot to learn about horses, their hooves, and how to keep them sound in captivity? That's what our common sense says!

Barefoot Clinician Martha Olivo to embark on transcontinental ride on barefoot horse!
In March of 2006, Martha Olivo and her Mustang horse Cisco will embark on a cross country trek from the northern California Pacfic coast to the shores of the Atlantic in North Carolina. This 9-month journey will be made at the rate of 20 miles per day, 100 miles per week. Martha and Cisco will travel Monday thru Friday, and Cisco will rest Saturday and Sunday. Martha will conduct a 1-day Information Presentation each Saturday and rest on Sunday. Every 9th week, Martha and Cisco will stop for a week. Martha will present a 5-day Hoof Groom Course, beginning on Monday with a 1-day Information Presentation followed by the 5-day Hoof Groom Course running Tuesday thru Saturday. Martha will then rest on Sunday and resume the ride on Monday. Check her website http://www.marthaolivo.com for dates when Martha will be in your area. There will be detailed maps showing the route she will take as she travels from coast to coast promoting the Martha Olivo Standard for Hoof Care. She will also be signing books, sharing photos, and telling stories of her adventures and the people she meets as she travels.

Thumbs up to Clinton Anderson! He's always been one of my favorite natural horse trainers, and now he has personally endorsed barefoot horse care! Barefoot clinician Pete Ramey was featured on Clinton Anderson's RFD-TV "Downunder Horsemanship" television show on December 20, 2005. On this show, Clinton revealed how he has now taken all 50 of his horses barefoot. Last year he flew Pete Ramey to his ranch to instruct him and his assistants on proper barefoot trimming techniques. Clinton was initially skeptical about the possibility of keeping performance horses barefoot, but after reading Pete's book and then receiving personal training from Pete, he became convinced that natural barefoot hoof care was the way to go! It has been a huge success and now he is sharing this with the world. Visit Clinton's website: downunderhorsemanship.com or Pete's website at: www.hoofrehab.com

Hooray to Practical Horseman Magazine! Their December 2005 issue features a wonderful article by Elaine Pascoe, titled, "Can Your Horse Go Barefoot? Here's why, and how, he may be happier without shoes." This article includes an interview with Pete Ramey, and well-rounded, positive advice. Practical Horseman is the number one magazine for English riders in the U.S. (including hunter/jumper and dressage). Barefoot has definitely hit mainstream!

Read about British Olympian Dressage competitor Emma Hindle, who is now winning barefoot:
http://www.brookhousestud.com (click on the British Flag, then select the News button) Quote from article, "Both Diamond Hit and Wie Weltmeyer bounced off the ground striding with confidence. The secret to this power and rhythm in her horses is the fact that they wear no shoes. 'The experiences I've had riding without shoes is unbelievable,' Hindle explained. 'Three years ago Wally had a problem after one shoeing, so we wanted to see how he did without them. Since then, we've taken off for three months in winter and put them back on for the shows. This year we decided to keep them off and I think it's brilliant.' Praising her farrier Erwin Zimmermann for doing a superb job trimming her horses' hooves, Hindle claimed that a horse moves best without shoes. 'Like everyone else I thought a horse needed shoes, but they aren't born with shoes on,' she joked."

Congratulations to all the new graduates of the Strasser Certification Course in North America!

Beth Baden, CA
Audrey Bryant, WA
Laura Bonnin, MN
Kate Christie, NJ
Sheri Fischer, MN
Stephanie Harlan, WA
Steve Kubik, MN
Jaime Romig, PA
Jennifer Vallieres, FL
Diane Brown, BC

Congratulations to all the new graduates of the Strasser Certification Course in Scandinavia!

In the end of May it was time for the final exam week (P4) of the Scandinavian SHP course at Krulliga Hasten in Sweden.
It was a hectic and warm summer week with long and busy days, but also a lot of socializing such as swimming and boiling hooves. (SHP substitute for BBQ) .

The exam ended a lovely summer night with a dinner party in the garden, a party that went on until the morning day after……
All 23 students from five countries passed the final exam, although some of them have not done all practice days, and will therefore not get their certificate/will be listed as students until this is done. For an updated list, please look at http://www.krulligahasten.se

Thanks to all of you for a very nice year, although hectic. We are now taking a break over the summer until we start next course in the end of August.
Carl & Cecilia
Krulliga Hasten AB

Congratulations to:
Alexandra Hunt (UK), Anette Stensson, Anki Wilhelmsson, Ann Green, Anne Aamodt (N), Britt-Marie Källerwald, Camila Haglund, Camilla Åberg, Dick Söderholm, Eeva-Leena Ketonen (FIN), Emma Olsson, Eric Bäckström, Gun Wessling, Helena Kardefeldt, Karen Drost (NL), Kristine Giske (N), Linn Fogelberg, Lisa McLachlan (UK), Maria Stark, Samatha Louise Perks (UK), Sixten Brandt, Terho Rajakangas (FIN), Ulrike Hermelin

It is with great sadness that we must announce that Dianne Coogias, SHP, passed away on Friday, April 29th, 2005, after a long battle with cancer. Her friends and horses miss her greatly. Click here to read her obituary.

"...This past weekend will go down in history as the first time a veterinarian has lectured to a purely veterinary audience at their own veterinary college in this country about hoof health, and this Spring marks my tenth year since graduating from Colorado State University. It was especially fitting being able to go back to my alma mater to share some of what I've learned out "in the real world". This completes a cycle of learning and experience in an important way, and I have "handed off batons" to a bunch of new recruits that will branch out and bring their own special healing touch to horses that so desperately want and deserve to be sound." -- Tomas Teskey D.V.M.

Another UK barefoot win - Racing Post thinks it may be first ever win on the flat for a horse without shoes.
Kavi, 5 year old gelding: owner Eamonn Wilmott writes on Feb 15, 2005, "Raced yesterday at Lingfield Park over 1M 4 furlongs on the all weather surface. Was rated 16th of the 16 runners. 3 furlongs from home, there is only one winner, as Kavi cruised up and pulled away to win easily by 3 lengths. Racing Post think it may be first ever win on the flat for a horse without shoes. Winner paid 64-1 on the Tote." (Also see this site under "Barefoot Performance.")

Saucy Night Makes UK Racing History by Winning Barefoot
The English Thoroughbred, Saucy Night, entered the record books on January 3, 2005, by winning the 2 1/2 mile steeplechase at Folkestone in the United Kingdom. Read all about Saucy in an exclusive interview with his unique owner in issue 18 of The Horse's Hoof. (Also see this site under "Barefoot Performance.")

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