What should I expect from a consultation?

I always offer a free 20min consultation before a first visit. This allows me to be able to assess your horse's feet, your environment and your needs as an owner. It also allows you the opportunity to get a better idea of what I can offer you and your horse.
Once we’ve decided whether to proceed, I’ll take detailed notes, trim the feet and answer any questions you may have. We will then be able to come up with an action plan to improve the health of the feet, or maintain the good feet you already have.
Initially a consultation usually takes about an hour, though this can vary depending on how much needs to be discussed etc.

What’s the difference between a farrier trim and an EP trim?

A balanced foot is a balanced foot. There are many different methods of achieving balance for both shod and unshod horses. The difference between farriery and EP isn’t so much about trimming, it’s about everything else that is necessary to have healthy feet. Farriery tends to look at a foot to see what it can add to make it better, where as Equine Podiatry tends to look at the foot to see what can be changed to make the foot grow what it needs to be healthier. This is obviously a generalisation as every professional works slightly differently and has different approaches, attitudes and skills.

How often will my horse need trimming?

Most horses need trimming every 6 weeks. Occasionally they may need trimming more or less often depending on if they have problems, or are in a lot of work.

Will I need to trim my horse between your visits?

No. It’s not necessary for you to trim your horses. Occasionally clients like to trim their own horses, and have a professional to back them up if and when they need it, or to check up on their work periodically, but this isn’t the standard of how Equine Podiatry operates. I don’t think trimming fewer feet means you need less knowledge, so unless you’re interested in becoming a complete hoof geek, you don’t need to worry about trimming.

Will you trim horses with behaviour difficulties?

Yes. I’ve spent many years training horses who are rather challenging when it comes to handling feet. In particularly extreme cases I may suggest that a training session might be of more benefit than a trim but in general I will work with the horse while I apply a trim.

How long will ‘transitioning’ take?

It is impossible to give a true estimate without seeing the horse and environment involved. Every horse starts from a different point. Some horses may not need any time at all. Others may take up to 6 months. It does of course depend what you intend to do with your horse. I will be able to give you a much better idea during your initial consultation.