Mapping and Evaluating the Hoof
The purpose of this page is to set forth a way for you to determine where the true foot of your horse is, which is the internal foot within the capsule. This process is called "mapping the foot". Some lines you will draw on the foot help you determine where specific internal anatomical parts of the inner foot are located. While other lines will tell you about where the external capsule should be growing to.
Tools You Will Need
A flexible ruler, a marker, hoof pick with a hoof brush on it, A sharp hoof knife, A camera
1. CLEAN THE HOOF. I will often take a small bucket of water and after I have cleaned out all the dirt with a hoof pick, I will wash the foot. You don't have to do this, but I like to since I like good pictures. At the least you can take a rag and wipe the wall down, so your marks will show up. Pick a marker that will show up on the hoof.
2. Trim the very apex of the frog. Gently trim away the excess until you find where the frog and sole are joined together it will be rounded. Make a mark at this location.
Tools You Will Need
A flexible ruler, a marker, hoof pick with a hoof brush on it, A sharp hoof knife, A camera
1. CLEAN THE HOOF. I will often take a small bucket of water and after I have cleaned out all the dirt with a hoof pick, I will wash the foot. You don't have to do this, but I like to since I like good pictures. At the least you can take a rag and wipe the wall down, so your marks will show up. Pick a marker that will show up on the hoof.
2. Trim the very apex of the frog. Gently trim away the excess until you find where the frog and sole are joined together it will be rounded. Make a mark at this location.