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PSA: That awkward clinic debate over always using a hoof level
At a big farrier clinic last month, everyone was saying you must use a hoof level for perfect balance on every horse. I spoke up and said I often skip it for pasture ponies and easy keepers. The room got quiet, and an older farrier shook his head, calling my way careless. I kept my cool and explained that on soft ground, a super precise trim can sometimes lead to tender feet. I told them about a ranch horse I work on who moved better after I left his hooves a bit more natural. A few folks rolled their eyes, but after the talk, a couple of younger shoers thanked me for saying it. It was funny how such a small thing caused a big fuss in a room full of pros. Now I think it's good to remember that not every rule fits every horse.
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michaelnguyen6mo ago
Wait, an older farrier actually called you careless to your face? That's wild. I've seen guys get so stuck on the level being law they trim a pasture pet like it's going to the derby. @gonzalez.anna proves even strict folks come around. My mentor always said if the horse moves fine on soft dirt and the owner's happy, you didn't fail just because you didn't use a tool. Some of these clinic debates miss the whole point of looking at the actual animal.
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troyjackson6mo ago
Honestly, that part about the level being law is so true. I saw a guy trim a sweet older mare into lameness because he was so focused on getting that perfect line he took off way too much heel. Her owner was just heartbroken. Tbh your mentor had it right. If the horse is moving better and the person paying you is thrilled, that's the real win. Some people get so caught up in the textbook way they forget we're working on a living animal, not a piece of wood.
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