Applied equine podiatry

FIVE-DAY HOLISTIC HOOF TRIMMING COURSE

Obtain a complete understanding of hoof health and begin to become proficient at hoof trimming in this comprehensive, five-day technical course. You will receive individualized training in the classroom, in the wet lab and under the horse, covering all aspects of hoof health assessment, functional hoof trimming, balance, corrective hoof procedures and so much more.  

Five-Day Course Curriculum: 

The curriculum of this course was developed to provide a broad, in-depth study of the equine foot and its workings. Structure, Function and Performance are defined. Gait, conformation, and environment are all addressed.

It is our hope that this course will lead to an increased desire to learn all one can about Applied Equine Podiatry and its practice. This course will provide the Horse Owner and Care Giver with many of the answers to the questions surrounding hoof care, Applied Equine Podiatry and the HPT Method.

Day One: Theory

Classroom time consisting of the study of Applied Equine Podiatry and Holistic Hoof Care. Examples of how it differs from and basic barefoot trimming and the traditional farrier practice are discussed in detail. Lecture includes  functional anatomy, circulation (Hemodynamics), and understanding dynamic balance. There is a thorough review of the Suspension Theory of Hoof Dynamics and the IAA Model (Internal Arch Apparatus Model). Extensive classroom materials are included (Power Point, exercises, evaluation forms, etc.).

Day Two: Model

Classroom time to include the introduction of Physiological Sequencing  and study of AEP’s foundational definition S+F=P (Structure + Function = Performance). Conformation and function of the structures of the equine foot and  hoof  is taught. Emphasis is placed on the importance of the application of correct stimulus to the hoof for the return of health, and performance. Defining the “missing structures” in the farrier and veterinarian world is covered, with an in-depth introduction to the “hoof wall matrix,” Do you have it? and how to get it. Additional time is spent on understanding  how to properly care for and transition horses to Applied Equine Podiatry.

Day Three: Methods

In-depth exploration of the internal workings of the equine foot and the hoof capsule that protects it, through wet lab dissection. Foot and Hoof theory and functional anatomy are outlined throughout the demonstration, always referring to whole horse health, and the effect foot function plays in achieving whole horse performance. 

Introduction to using the Spectrum of Usability for protecting the welfare of the horse, with continued lessons in how to achieve performance and health through the application of correct stimulus for the development of healthy structure.

Day Four: Skills

Students are introduced to tool use for the application of the HPT Method (High Performance Trim). Students will use cadavers to establish a base of information for the use of the Spectrum of Usability and to develop their tool use skills. Why to trim, not just How to trim. Do you know what foundation supports each structure and how that knowledge can be used to provide proper stimulus.

Day Five: Live Application

Day begins with an introduction to easily and safely getting under the horse, followed by instruction in the application of the HPT Method (High Performance Trim) to live horses. Horses are provided if the student chooses not to bring their own horse (although we recommend it).  The day ends with Q & A. Study of Whole Horse Hoof Care and the application of the HPT Model, with the HPT Method being the main topic.  Live Horses will be used for gait analysis, hoof evaluation, and trimming.