Pathways to Learning

• Managing Your Barefoot Horse (MBH 1)
• Applied Equine Podiatry (AEP 1)
• Advanced Applied Equine Podiatry (AEP 2) See Syllabus Below

• 2 Day Introductory Course, Open to all
• 3 Day Fundamentals Workshops (15 CE hours) Open to all
• 5-Day Hands-on Applied Equine Podiatry Courses (40 CE hours) Open to all

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• What is the difference between an Applied Equine Podiatrist and a natural trimmer?

The differences are many.  IAEP is a school which bases its theories on the principles of Applied Equine Podiatry and not the feral horse or its environment.  Our primary objective is to treat and respect the whole horse within the domesticated environment. Our model is based on the Internal Arch Apparatus (IAA) of the horse’s foot. The IAA is not the arch of the sole of the hoof, but describes an organ or group of structures that make up the primary functioning portion of the equine foot, housed within the hoof capsule. Being able to visualize the internal foot (IAA) during the application of the HPT Method allows for consistent, repeatable dynamic balance.

Promoting correct “Stimulus” is a primary factor in our practice, this in respect to Domestication as we know it today.  There in lies the differences. Applied Equine Podiatry utilizes a model based on the domesticated sport horse, whereas most natural trimmers utilize the feral horse’s hoof as their model.  Time has proven the wild horse (feral) “hoof” to be a poor model of health in domestication.  In the eyes of our founder, KC La Pierre, the formula for force disqualifies the feral hoof as a viable model for trimmers; F=M x A.  Force equals Mass times Acceleration.  The feral horse carriers no rider weight or tack. It is never asked to perform repetitive lateral movements, and it is never asked to cope with the harshest environment a horse could be exposed to, domestication.

The essence of Applied Equine Podiatry is the conscientious study of the equine foot, always striving to expose it to proper environmental stimuli, making every effort to promote proper Structure and function, as we progress in achieving high performance. It is accepting the fact that the horse has the innate ability to heal itself and that domestication of the horse has caused imbalance and broken the golden rule of Do No Harm.” Keith “KC” La Pierre, 2004

It’s not about “how to trim,” but rather “why you are trimming.” 

Applied Equine Podiatry offers a cutting-edge alternative that can be utilized by the farrier or natural trimmer.

• What does D.A.E.P. stand for?

D.A.E.P. stands for Diploma in Applied Equine Podiatry. They are hoof care providers practicing and promoting the science of Applied Equine Podiatry,.All graduates that have successfully earned their diploma may use the  designation D.A.E.P. after their name.

Active Alumni may also use M.I.A.E.P. after their name, signifying that they are active Members of the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry and are actively participating in continuing professional development. 

When should I enlist the services of a D.A.E.P?   Click Here

• How does the MBH 1 Online differ from the AEP 1 Online?

The new MBH 1 Online course (Managing Your Barefoot Horse) curriculum consists of modules of study that include basic instructional videos for the horse owner. Assignments for each module are completed online. Students that enroll in the AEP 1 course are assigned a mentor, not in the MBH 1 course. The MBH 1 course is suitable for horse owners that would like to start implementing AEP in their daily holistic hoof care program, are transitioning out of shoes, or wish to learn more ways to help their already barefoot horse.

The AEP 1 course goes into greater depth and serves as the academic foundation for the Institute’s Level 1 Diploma (DAEP). The AEP 1 (Applied Equine Podiatry Level 1) course consist of 10 modules of study, mid term exam, and final exam. When you enroll in the AEP 1 course you are assigned a faculty advisor who will mentor you through the academic learning process, provide you one-on-one guidance and reassurance. Upon successful completion of the AEP 1 course you will receive a “Certificate of Completion”, which is required for completion of the Level 1 Diploma program.

• Can I take the Online course as a stand alone course or do I have to be a full time student?

You do not need to be declare your self as a full time (FT) student to enroll in either the MBH 1 or AEP 1 courses.  These courses are stand-alone courses. The AEP 1 course does represent the “academic” portion of the diploma program and its certificate of completion will be honored when a person does become a full time student, enrolled in the diploma program.

• What is the difference between the 2-day course and 3-day workshop?

A primary difference is that our 3 day workshops are taught by the Institute’s Co-founder, KC La Pierre. Whereas, the 2 day courses are taught by our highly qualified licensed Instructors. The “2-day” course is our Introductory course for people that would like to know more about AEP.  It is ideal for  horse owners currently using a DAEP and want to learn more about the hoof or for those who have never been exposed to AEP. All are good candidates for the 2 day course. The 2-day course is not a trimming course, it covers basic theory, offers a hoof dissection,  covers hoof anatomy and function, as well as proper tool use. Cadaver hooves are used throughout this course. The 2-day course is not about trimming your own horses. The 2-day course is an introduction to the science applied equine podiatry and holistic hoof care as a whole, where the horse enthusiast will begin the process of learning hoof function, identify structure health, and learning how to implement the basic principles of AEP into their holistic hoof care protocol. Our 3-day workshops are taught by Co-founder KC La Pierre, MAEP, RJF, CF, APF. The 3 day workshops are often hands-on workshops that explore balance and foot function in great detail. 

• I am a first time horse owner, will I be lost at a 5-day course?

The 5-day course is designed to help even the first time horse owner with common questions.  What the course does is dispel the many myths of practice that surrounds the hoof care industry today, including those questions that arise concerning “Natural” hoof care.  There have been so many advances in the field in the last twenty years that new information is invaluable to the hoof care professional and today’s horse owner.  KC discusses for example; the “sole” of the hoof.  KC starts at the beginning for the laymen, explaining according to his theory what the structure is, and how it functions, but also takes the theory one step further and discusses how to rehabilitate or expose that structure to the correct stimulus for growth, and also identifies it’s foundation.  Which in turn, means, being proactive with your hoof regime and not waiting until structure is lost to recognize a problem.

• I have been trimming for years. Will the hoof course be too basic for me?

The 5-day hoof course is designed to enhance any hoof care regime.  Whether you are a seasoned farrier, first time horse owner, or avid trimmer, the HPT Method and Applied Equine Podiatry offers a fresh innovative approach that will enhance your practice.  The reason is that Applied Equine Podiatry approaches hoof care from a very different perspective.  K.C. La Pierre’s theories and the hoof model he promotes are unique to the science of Applied Equine Podiatry. The practice of AEP is fresh, innovative and exciting.  Having been taught the world over for nearly two decades, Applied Equine Podiatry has helped hundreds of hoof care professionals and enthusiast improve the quality of life of thousands of horses.

• How does the diploma work?

The Diploma is a two-part program:  1.) Academic and 2.) Practical.  The academic portion (Online Curriculum) is a 12-month program consisting of approximately 300 hours of study.  The online must be finished prior to attempting the final “practical” exam. It is best that students pursue the online program before or during their practical hours. 

The practical portion, the hands-on courses are part of an 18-month program, which equates to 200 hours of study (Five 5-day courses).  Students may take more than five courses, but must take a minimum of 5 to qualify.

• How do time restrictions differ for online vs the practical portion of the diploma?

The AEP 1 Online course should be completed within 12 months from the date of enrollment. Enrollment commences when you pay the course tuition and you receive your first module of study.  It is recommended that each student complete a module of study per month, thus finishing in 12 months time. The course is self paced and you may finished in less time, this depends on how quickly you choose to complete each assignment.  Our faculty will do their best to accommodate your schedule.  If you do not finish your modules within 12 months, there is no need to worry, you can purchase a six-month extension. Practical hours do not have to be taken concurrent to the online. The certificate of completion does not expire.

The “Practical” hours begin with the  first 5-day course you attended. You then have 18 months to complete your practical hours.  If for some reason you do not complete your “practical” course hours, required for sitting the final exam within 18 months, you do not have to worry. The course hour calendar moves to the very next course that you can attend, with the first course hours being dropped. You must register 200 hours of practical study within an 18 month period. You won’t lose all your hours, unless of course you take a break that extends 18 months beyond your first and second course, then you would be required to start again.

• Can I apply 3-day workshop hours to my required diploma hours?

Yes, we do allow students to utilize 3-day workshop hours (20 credit hours). However, a person who takes a 3-day workshop and is not a full time student must declare themselves as a full time student within 45 days from the date of attending the workshop. Note: In this case, enrolling in the Online AEP 1 course constitutes full time enrollment, thus declaring full time student status.

*A full time student may substitute (2) 3-day workshops for one 5-day course, if both are taken within the 18 month grace period. 

• Why aren’t all your graduates listed on your site?

The IAEP website clearly lists all Active Alumni members by country.   An Active Alumni member is someone who has earned their diploma and actively maintains 40 CPD (Continue Professional Development) hours  yearly and who has signed and sworn to uphold the Institute’s  “Cope of Ethics”.  Active Alumni Members are entitled to use the designation “MIAEP” after their DAEP designation, declaring that they are active members of the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry (MIAEP). Active Alumni are also eligible to enroll in our  Advanced Level programs. If a graduate chooses to not pursue CPD for a given year they can re-establish their membership the following year by enrolling in an approved CPD course.  IAEP takes pride in our graduates and in a high standard of professionalism.

We can not endorse a graduate that does not meet the requirements of Active Alumni status, this for the safety of your horse and the reputation of the Institute.

• I use one of the Institute’s Applied Equine Podiatrists currently.  How can a 2-day course help me?  I never intend to trim my horse myself.

The 2-day course is essential for any horse owner, especially if they themselves are not trimming their horse’s feet.  As you know by reputation, our DAEP demand owner commitment. Commitment is the key to success, all too often being the deciding factor in a rehabilitation or performance program. Whether you’ve just pulled your horse’s shoes for the first time or your horse has been “barefoot” all its life, the 2-day course will strengthen the relationship between you, your horse, and your Applied Equine Podiatrist.  Being an informed equine ward is essential to success in the practice of Applied Equine Podiatry.  Without it the science falls short.  All our DAEP are trained to spend countless hours educating horse owners on what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how as a team you can improve your horse lives in domestication.  Your DAEP can set you up for success (balance, advice, ect.), but success is gained within the fifth dimension of “Time”, the time between visits.   Much of the burden of success is on your shoulders and not on your DAEP.  This also means that you can reap the rewards gained through commitment. Being a student of the 2-day course gives you, the horse owner, the opportunity to learn from our best and brightest ADAEP’s directly. What they teach will empower you to succeed.

• What if choose I to shoe my horse for my discipline?  Will the information in a 5-day course and AEP still apply to me?

This is the most exciting part about the 5-day course.  Applied Equine Podiatry does not question to shoe or not to shoe. The real question is:  correct stimulus versus incorrect stimulus.  KC La Pierre educates on proper hoof function and correct structure.  We all strive for the perfect hoof and being taught to be pro-active makes this pursuit possible.  The 5-day Course teaches “Whole Horse Health”, from a pro-active perspective.  This perspective and the knowledge gained will empower you with the ability to make informed decisions. Understanding the principles and philosophies of AEP empower you to be pro-active.  We believe that every horse, regardless of whether it is a pasture ornament or a top performance horse, deserves the best possible care.  Many horse’s posses hooves that are below standard (unhealthy), suffering from possess what is call “Deformed Hoof Syndrome”. Why, because they have not been provided correct environmental stimulus, or worse yet, are in an environment that is not conducive to healing.  AEP offers you a step by step process by which you can assist the horse in developing the best hoof possible.   By demystifying the hoof, owners, veterinarians, and farriers can aid the horse in taking its hooves from ordinary to extraordinary.  Once a healthy hoof has been achieved you can apply a horseshoe, if that is what your discipline or environment dictates.  Applied Equine Podiatry will help you understand the ramifications of applying a conventional horseshoe and more importantly, teach you to know when to remove it.  You will learn how to make an informed pro-active decision. 

• Beyond the Institute’s educational programs  what other help can you offer me?

Visit our blog to read many informative articles and view the many instructional videos produced over the years.

IAEP has published KC La Pierre’s book “Laminitis, Founder & Equine Digital Osteoarthritis”.  Available for purchase. Click Here

Applied Equine Podiatry is about being proactive, not reactive. Check out the great tools and hoof care products that have been developed at the Institute and are being sold throughout the world.

There is the KC Brand line of trimming tools that includes a drop blade farrier’s knife and a safety conscious farrier’ apron, but the most innovative tool by far is the Dynamic Balance Hoof Level (DBHL). This tool teaches trimmers how to achieve consistent and repeatable balance. Click Here 

We have also developed many hoof care products that can help you in the rehabilitation and maintenance of your horse’s feet.  These products include: 

Silvetrasol product line of all natural thrush, white line disease, and wound treatments. Click Here

Perfect Hoof  Wear product line of innovative hoof wear, including the revolutionary PHW Poly Wrap. Click Here

Sole Mate Therapeutic line of products. Therapeutic hoof pads for the treatment of laminitis, founder, thin soles, navicular syndrome and more.

We are here to support your efforts to improve the quality of life of today’s domesticated horse. Do not hesitate to call on us.