Laminitis Management for Farriers

Recognizing Laminitis

Signs include a rocked-back stance, increased digital pulse, heat in the hoof, reluctance to move, and pain response to hoof testers over the toe. Laminitis is a veterinary emergency. Call the vet first.

Acute Phase Support

During the acute phase, provide mechanical support to the frog and sole. Styrofoam pads taped to the hoof can provide immediate relief. Do not trim or shoe during an active laminitic episode unless directed by a veterinarian.

Heart Bar Application

Heart bar shoes provide targeted frog support. The frog plate must be fit precisely to the frog without excessive pressure. Improper heart bar fitting can worsen the condition. Use radiographs to guide placement.

Radiographic Guidance

Always request lateral radiographs before working on a laminitic horse. Measure the sole depth, coffin bone angle, and any rotation or sinking. Use markers on the hoof wall and at the tip of the frog for reference.

Long-Term Recovery Trimming

Recovery trimming focuses on re-establishing the correct relationship between the coffin bone and the hoof capsule. This is a gradual process over multiple trim cycles. Avoid aggressive changes. Monitor progress with periodic radiographs.

Prevention

Educate your clients about laminitis risk factors: obesity, grain overload, pasture access in spring, Cushing's disease, and retained placenta. Early intervention dramatically improves outcomes.

Sources and Further Reading

• • American Farriers Association: Provides certified education programs on therapeutic shoeing techniques and laminitis management protocols for professional farriers
• • University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine: Offers research-based guidelines on acute laminitis intervention and mechanical support systems through their New Bolton Center
• • American Association of Equine Practitioners: Publishes clinical standards for laminitis treatment and collaborative care between veterinarians and farriers
• • International Association of Animal Therapists: Maintains certification standards and continuing education resources for therapeutic hoof care and long-term rehabilitation trimming techniques

Try These Free Tools

Put these insights into practice with our free calculators and planners:

• Shoe Fit Guide
• Farrier Invoice Generator
• Horse Hoof Health Checklist
• Appointment Scheduler