The Barefoot Bloke

15/11/2025

Our last clinic for 2025 was fantastic. The entire spectrum of the equine world was represented, from bull riders to body workers and breeders. All were there. It is joyful to see so many folks keen to learn about how the hoof functions, how to build a healthy functioning hoof in order to help their equine partners enjoy a sound, happy and healthy life.

Dates for next years clinics will be posted in the not too distant future.

So when the opportunity presents itself, signup, show up and enjoy the growth.😊😉

26/10/2025

Exciting News: EasyCare Downunder Joins The Barefoot Blacksmith Family
We’re proud to announce the acquisition of EasyCare Downunder from Mike and Chrissan Ware. Over the years, Mike and Chrissan have built EasyCare Downunder into a trusted name in the Australian hoofcare industry through their dedication, expertise, and passion. We’re honored to carry forward their legacy.
As part of this transition, we’ve merged the EasyCare Downunder online store with the Barefoot Blacksmith online store, creating a single destination for a wider range of hoofcare products. This means more choice, more convenience, and the same commitment to quality and service you’ve come to expect.
We look forward to continuing to support the hoofcare community with expanded offerings and ongoing innovation.

09/09/2025

Written for autumn in the northern hemisphere, although this occurs in both spring and autumn. So please be watchful…..
Tongue in cheek, according to some Hoofing Malicious practioners who believe laminitis is the result of trimming….. maybe people only trim badly at different times of the year 😂😂😂

As we approach the start of fall and the temperatures start to drop, here is some important information to know regarding fall laminitis.

Fall laminitis refers to cases of laminitis or founder that occur in the autumnal months. Although laminitis can happen in any season, anecdotally there seems to be an uptick in the number of cases in the fall.

Why could this be?

• As the days get shorter and colder, grasses have been shown to respond to this stress with higher sugar concentrations. Diets with higher simple sugar concentrations may increase the risk of laminitis.

• Decreases in exercise may cause increases in body condition. Fat or obese horses are at risk of developing laminitis.

• Horses naturally have increased levels of certain hormones in the fall. If you have a horse with PPID (previously referred to as equine Cushing’s), the increase in their cortisol levels could put them at risk for laminitis.

If you have questions concerning fall laminitis or are concerned that your equine companion may be at an increased risk, contact your equine veterinarian so that they can properly evaluate your unique situation.

Thank you to the Horse Owner Education Committee for providing this information.

06/09/2025

03/09/2025

There is nothing worse than having to butcher a horse's hoof because a previous hoof care provider failed to address pathology. If pathologies are not addressed, fire them on the spot; they are either lazy or lack knowledge of anatomy.

26/07/2025

Understanding the distal limb.
What is a Bursa?