As any breeder can attest, foal feet can be tricky, and a good farrier is invaluable in ensuring the best outcome for your youngster. HQ had a chat with Stephen Blakey, a highly recommended farrier with huge experience in working with young stock, to get a quick introduction to the world of foal farriery.
Q: How old is a foal when you first have to take a look at it as a farrier?
A: Foals can be assessed from as young as two weeks of age, and if needed, the feet can be balanced at this stage. However, it is more usual for the first trim to occur at four weeks of age.
Q: Can you correct irregular development of the hooves or an extremely irregular stance?
A: Yes, you can correct most foals, depending on the severity of the problem. The use of acrylics, foal cuffs and two weekly trims are all helpful tools in correcting faults. Of course, surgical intervention and correction are also options in more severe cases.
Q: Up to what age can you make corrections?
A: The closure of the growth plates restricts the time you have to correct these issues. Conformational problems in the fetlock and below should be dealt with before three months of age, and with the knee, you can still make changes up until about one year of age.
Q: What are the most common issues you see in foals in your practice?
A: These are divided between fetlock varus (turning in from the fetlock, usually in conjunction with offset knees) and carpus valgus (outward deviation of the lower leg from the knee). With fetlock varus, I use extensions, which I have used with success. Carpus valgus usually requires surgical intervention and extensions, and in most cases, the vet will perform a periosteal strip.
Q: Irregular feet often develop because the foals place their forelegs wide to be able to graze. Is there anything breeders can do to prevent ‘grazing feet’ from developing?
A: These issues are very rare in my practice. The most important element is to have your foals trimmed monthly and to not over-trim the feet. If we have severe problems, we usually do surgery. This may involve the vet cutting the check ligament.
Q: Is there any specific advice you would give to breeders about feet?
The best advice for breeders is to have your young stock done on a regular four-week cycle. Foals grow rapidly and change all the time, so it’s best to keep on top of their feet. I’d also advise using someone with extensive knowledge and experience working with young stock.