Cutting-Edge Hoof Education

All of the cutting-edge hoof information presented at this symposium is very helpful to the fledgling field of equine podiatry. Equally valuable is the open, helpful atmosphere in which everyone is learning and helping each other understand new concepts.
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Described by host Ric Redden, DVM, founder of the International Equine Podiatry Center in Versailles, Ky., as "probably the most harmonious learning event in the world," the Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium held annually in Louisville, Ky., is a mecca for farriers and veterinarians interested in expanding their knowledge of the pathological equine foot. "This is an intense, informal learning experience," he said in his opening remarks. Attendees (many of whom come every year) tend to be the most sought-after shoers and veterinarians in their geographic areas for foot problems because of their desire to learn and their exposure to the experience of those, like Redden, who make treating these problem horses their lives' work.

Their next goal is to spread the word about proven new techniques and proven principles, educating both colleagues and clients. "Everyone accepts the principle of 'no foot, no horse,' but they don't always practice it," said one attendee. "We've got to keep putting the information out there."

Club Foot Experience

The first presentation was on the club foot–a problem seen in all breeds. The club foot is characterized by higher hoof angle than is normal for that horse due to an increased pull of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) on the bottom of the coffin bone

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Written by:

Christy West has a BS in Equine Science from the University of Kentucky, and an MS in Agricultural Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

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