Whole Horse Hoof Care - Equine Podiatrist

13/11/2025

Some of you may already know of Victoria and the lovely Leo. It was a pleasure to help them with a hoof boot fitting the other day and I'll be following them from now on to see how Leo progresses.

31/10/2025

𝐀 𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞

British Riding Clubs have taken a big, brave step this week one that quietly puts welfare right back where it belongs, at the centre of everything we do with horses.

From now on, riders at BRC competitions will be allowed to use vocal aids (their voice) during tests, so long as it’s quiet and discreet. And just as importantly, nosebands are no longer compulsory. You can ride in a bridle without one if your horse prefers it.

It might sound like a small rule tweak, but actually, it’s a major cultural shift. For decades, competitive riding has been wrapped up in convention, polished tack, tight straps, silent riders and anything that didn’t fit that mould was frowned upon. This new rule recognises what good horse people have known all along: that a relaxed jaw, a soft mouth and calm, clear communication matter far more than appearances.

Research has shown for years that over tightened nosebands can cause pain, restrict jaw movement, and mask tension. Some horses simply go better without one, yet many riders felt forced to use them because the rule book said so. Allowing riders to make that choice is an enormous welfare win. It recognises that every horse is different, and that comfort should come before conformity.

Allowing voice aids follows the same logic. Horses understand tone, rhythm and calm reassurance. A soft “steady” or “and… walk” can do far more to guide and relax a horse than any amount of rein pressure. It’s not about talking constantly, it’s about communicating clearly the same way we do on the ground.

This change also puts BRC ahead of the curve internationally. Sweden made nosebands optional in 2025, Denmark followed soon after, and many European countries are now openly questioning their necessity. Yet, British Dressage, our own governing body for national dressage is still lagging behind. Instead of removing the requirement altogether, BD is focusing on measuring tightness with gauges, due to come in over the next year. It’s a step forward, yes, but it still clings to the idea that we must have a strap around the horse’s nose in the first place.

The truth is, BRC have done what BD has hesitated to do trust riders to make the right welfare choices without being dictated by tradition. It’s refreshing, forward thinking, and very much in line with the broader welfare movement we’re seeing across Europe.

Of course, it’s not without challenges. Taking the noseband off won’t fix heavy hands, bad riding or poor saddle fit. And using the voice isn’t a shortcut for feel or timing, it takes skill to make it an aid, not a distraction. This is where coaches and clubs will have to step up. Riders need education, not just freedom, to use these tools fairly and effectively.

But overall, this is the right kind of change. It shows that BRC trusts its members to ride with empathy and awareness. It moves away from the old, rigid picture of dressage and back towards true horsemanship where the horse’s comfort and confidence come first.

British Dressage might want to take note. The grassroots are speaking, and they’re saying welfare matters more than formality. Tight straps and silent mouths don’t make good riding harmony does.

Hopefully Ireland won’t be far behind. We pride ourselves on being a nation that understands horses But we’re still a little slow to adapt when it comes to formal welfare driven rule changes.

𝐁𝐑𝐂 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐫 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡!
🙌🏻❤️

Photo Credit: Julia Clarke ( long time follower)

27/10/2025

I think this closes the weekends madness over the recent claims around laminitis and the abhorrent mindset behind those leading it. I stand behind Trickle Nets and her words on this subject (not necessarily the political views, I'd keep that out of it). If you're still in any doubt (or you have no doubt in your belief in them) please take the time to read this - it echoes that written by other professionals who have directly stood up against them and this madness.

As Trickle Net founder, I wanted to write to you all. Yes Lyndsay even you, and Bethan, your message is at the end.

I did not intend for my business to get caught up in this, but I had no choice. We must make a stand against misleading dangerous information. Especially when our horses lives are treated with such disregard. We have to prevent that rubbish ever reaching those owners who need most support for their vulnerable horses.
I then watched as a certain group tried to discredit my brand, and all I've built over the years. Even using fake profiles to cause trouble, despite the fact I haven't blocked them 🤔

It's hard to believe we are all here for the horses, when we see such radical extreme behaviour, from a group who claims to 'save' horses.
Coming from different perspectives, in the field of equine welfare, debate is indeed no bad thing. However, what we present must be true, clear, and for the good of the horse. Without the risk of owners misunderstanding and inadvertently causing harm to their horses.

A recent post by HM claimed that "laminitis is not caused by diet" and this post was shared and supported by Gawsworth Track Livery.

This is an ignorant, reckless and dangerous statement. I believe this is a very cheap shot, designed to elicit reaction and exposure to a 'group' led by a woman with no valuable experience in nutrition or endocrinology. No medical or veterinary training. HM (Lyndsay) is not able to debate. They (she) is regularly aggressive and condescending. Any questions are answered with 'where are your photos / x rays' and then you're blocked.
On a live video this woman attacked me personally. I've never met her or even spoken with her. She tried to bait me over the death of my horse, and called myself and other professionals stupid, ignorant and evil. She blocked my comments during the video, but shouted 'come and debate with me on YouTube. Me and you, face to face'

Can you imagine!? 😳

HM / Lyndsay - the last thing I'm going to do is waste my precious time trying to put information to you while you shout over me in public view. You are so rude, and you have exposed yourself as a bully. You don't have the capacity to debate. I would feel like Zelensky at the White House. Lured to the lions den for a pointless exercise in your Ego Expansion Plan. I'm embarrassed for you just at the thought of it! The irony is, if I could tolerate that experience, you would only make an arse of yourself, again. Your followers would see who you really are, which would be great!
However, you would put me in therapy for years, and I just don't have the time for those weekly appointments.

And so... to calm the waters

I feel is important to remind ourselves of the need to remain objective. There are people and families involved here. While I'm a wizened old crazy horse woman, not everyone has the rhino skin that comes with my years in this industry.
We are all a product of our own experiences and beliefs. Our opinions are formed on the available information, our history plus our beliefs and other influences such as peer pressure.
We can get quite passionate on these subjects, as our emotions are deeply tied to our connection and love for horses.
𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴. This is a fact. Nobody can hold an incorrect opinion, as it's a result of personal judgement, and anything you feel personally is valid and correct. We have to respect this in our interactions.
However this does not mean you had all the information when you formed your opinion. It's always important to keep your mind open, and keep leaning. Especially when it comes to the care of our horses.

As a horse owner, when choosing which path to follow in the care of your horse, it's crucial to evaluate the quality and integrity of the information available. We have all seen very persuasive posts, comments and videos online. The plain fact is, if it smells like doodoo, it probably is. 💩

But how can we be sure, when somebody is so adamant they / their method can 'cure' your horse? What can we do to ensure our horses are getting the best care?

𝙎𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙚!! Any true professional in our industry will welcome your questions. I personally really enjoy challenges and questions from customers. I've nearly always got your answer, but if I don't, I'll go and find it for you. This is a huge part of what I do in helping owners with forage feeding. It brings me great benefits too, as it keeps my learning open and can often trigger a new design or a new way to use my products.
I am extremely lucky to work with some outstanding professionals in this industry. Nutritionists, Weighbridge services, Universities, Farriers and trimmers, Consultants, Wholesalers and Retailers... this list goes on. I feel so well supported by my peers, and this keeps me pushing to learn more.

I cannot think of a single one of them who would shut me down if I attempted to question their knowledge. They all welcome questions from peers and customers.

When you bring your initial questions for a new service, feed, hoof care method, nutritional advice, feeding product etc...

𝗣𝗮𝘆 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱.

If you feel patronised or belittled, drop that connection immediately. That's not the path to follow.
If the person is pushing you to spend money, where you would actually still like to find out more, walk away.
Be aware when your questions are deflected. One of the easiest ways to do this is asking about your horse. Don't let go of that question. If it's important to you, stop talking about your horse and ask again.
Ask about their qualifications and experience. For example an independent Nutritionist is verified and registered (RNutr) and will give you far more accurate, detailed and balanced advice over anyone trying to sell you a feed.
Look them up. If they are registered (Nutritionist, Farriers, Dentist etc) you will find them listed. If you don't find them listed, ask why!
Are they BETA registered? The British Equestrian Trade Association carry out their own verification on members to maintain quality in advice, products and safety.
A worthy professional will put the welfare of your horse front and centre. Not clicks, likes, shares, comments. They don't make inflammatory graphics with false statements designed to bring them attention.
Lastly, and this is a really good one.
𝘼𝙨𝙠 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨.
Examples of when it went wrong. Ask how can it go wrong? All professionals can give you examples of when things didn't go to plan. Myself for example. Just one of my mistakes was taking my eye off quality with a new supplier, and sending out an inferior batch of nets that all failed 😭
That was an expensive mistake!
We all try new and different things to further our knowledge and expand on what we can offer horse owners. We all have stories where something didn't work.
If anyone tells you that everything they have done with horses has been successful, all of their trials provide proof they are right, this method has always worked with every horse, we have a 100% success rate, all my advice has worked for every horse, this feed is all that every horse needs, this liquid is guaranteed to make your horse dappled grey blah blah.... they are either lying or they never met a real horse in the rocking horse workshop.

This brings me to the value of REAL research. Where we test for failures in looking for answers.

I am not academic, I'm a designer.
After equestrian college, I spent my younger years riding and coaching before running an equine agent business. ( Hello to anyone who remembers me! 👋 ) It's only later in my career, when I'm too old and fat to ride like that, I find myself involved with research for the purpose of designing better feeding products and understanding more about their application and effects.
I have never met anyone else in the world who works in my specific niche of forage application. I kinda invented this job.
Let me tell you, from one who is learning later in life, research is 𝗗𝗘𝗘𝗣!!
You can not simply present some selected case studies, and say - 'There!! I told you so!'
(Lyndsay, that's for you. That's not how it works.)

It is essential to follow research guidelines to present credible reliable research. It must be open to scrutiny. It must follow a solid approved methodology with a suitable sample size which includes a control group for a base line and comparison. It must be transparent and ethical.
Acknowledging and managing personal bias is crucial to objectivity. Additionally having any research peer reviewed is the gold standard in verification, and ensures critical evaluation and validation of the method and data analysis.

𝗡𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗠𝘀 '𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵' 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀.

Yes there has been success, but did you know, they will only 'treat' the horses they are confident their method will work for?
They do not accept all horses and have recommended euthanasia for many. (Possibly rightly, who knows 🤷‍♀️) This means there is no baseline. No control group. No method or scrutiny. What you are privy to is the cream off the top. You do not see the full picture at all. You see what they want you to see. How do I know? I have discussed rehab with Bethan, and she's an honest person.
Of course, it would be unethical to take on every horse. Though doesn't that somewhat discredit the method? Credible research just isn't available here, and we cannot make assumptions based on cherry picked cases.

This all reminds me of the Strasser method which was heavily debated some years ago. This was a radical trim developed by Dr Strasser, but even she produced credible research and went so far as to outline circumstances where her extreme trim could result in the death of the horse.
So historically we can observe radical hoof care which was far more balanced and honest than what HM are pushing. Literally. Down your throat. Or get blocked.

And lastly, another comparison which I find really sad. Does anyone remember Arbonne? You probably know where I'm going if you do. Arbonne are a multi level marketing company. Or as most of us would say, a Pyramid scheme.
I remember friends getting caught up in this year's ago, with promises of a white Mercedes when you made it big and strict rules on behaviour such as chanting at your vision board from 4am - did i make that up? It does sound bonkers. I witnessed friends change. Chasing the promises and dedicating their lives to follow the ethos, while pumping money in and losing their homes and their marriages. It changed them, into robots chanting out the same BS claims on crappy products. Previous Arbonne 'members' make claims of brainwashing and bullying in a cult environment. Now, I'm not saying HM is a pyramid scheme.... is it? I don't know how they make their money. All I know is that it smells the same to me. (Remember, if it smells like doodoo...... 💩)

Bethan is a really lovely young lady. Yeah she's sassy and straight, and that might not be your thing. I think she's fab, and I know her heart is with the horses.
Very early on in Bethans track career, she contacted us to use our products. Of course, they are perfect for tracks. After using the products for a while, we were happy to give her a sponsorship deal which included 20% off her orders, plus some free products and exposure etc. That was all great. The work she did in promoting track life aligned perfectly with our ethos. Health and happiness from a natural diet, movement, socialisation, good hoof care, weight control etc. She was a big fan of Jamie Jacksons work, Paddock paradise. All was well.
Unfortunately HM spotted that Bethan was on to something great, and 'they' began to sink 'their' claws into her.
Do you get my Arbonne comparison now? Hmmm...

I believe Bethan has been manipulated by this HM woman. HM don't care about Bethans great work, aside from the x rays they want to beat you with. Again and again... HM have sacrificed Bethan. Thrown her under the bus in pursuit of personal validation for a bully ring leader. Cult members will defend her. They don't dare ask questions, but just follow and get on board. Isn't she wonderful. You know she's dissected hundreds of cadaver limbs... she's very confident loud and adamant and for god's sake don't challenge her. Oh and if you want to learn you need to join a secret group.... she's not for sharing that info in front of experts. That would never work...

So yes, we no longer sponsor GTL, and I feel that's a real shame. I personally really hope Bethan is OK, and I hope she might find a way to remove herself from HM and get back to her true roots. Caring for the horses, and rehabilitation with the knowledge she has gained from the horses. Not the BS she's made to peddle and share.

Wouldn't it be fantastic if we see her back, independent of any 'method' and showing us all her true self loving those horses back to health.

Lyndsay - sure, let's go head to head on a live debate. You won't mind if I bring my cardboard twin right? Please can we have a swear jar too?

Beth, there's a lot of love for you out there. Remember I always told you integrity is everything in your brand. Lyndsay doesn't know what integrity is. Stay true to your roots and values, and all will be well x

Can we please now remember there are lives and livelihoods at risk here. Lets be compassionate and think twice before you bash anyone online. You too Lyndsay Peter Tim or whatever profile you're currently using. Count to 100 before you have another embarrassing meltdown on a live stream again.
I do feel like we have a bizarre connection now. Even though you hate me, I'm ok with that. I don't hate you.

In fact, next time my farrier comes to fit shoes on my girls perfect lovely Welsh feet, I'm going to take a photo and make you a Christmas card from Team Trickle Net. I don't mind where you put it. Though I think I may wet myself laughing when I post it. That's my twisted little win 😆

Always, for the horses. ❤️

26/10/2025

Another post explaining another contributing factor of laminitis......

🙌 Winter laminitis…. What is this all about? 🙌

FACT - Research has indicated that 80-90% of laminitis is caused by endocrine (hormone system) disease (link to research in comments).

While there are many disease pathways to laminitis, if a horse has autumn and winter laminitis in the northern hemisphere, I immediately consider two of the most common underlying causes:

1. Endocrinopathic or hormonally driven laminitis, and
2. Mechanical/trauma driven laminitis

Laminitis = disease of the lamellae resulting in a lack of healthy attachment between the coffin bone/inner foot and the outer capsule. These two causes are often connected due to hoof care failing to optimise welfare in horses, leading to hormone imbalances, however a horse with ideal hoof welfare parameters can succumb to endocrinopathic laminitis simply due to what is called the seasonal rise in ACTH (hormone) levels.

Why winter? Because of the following facts:

1. ACTH, a hormone, rises in late summer to late autumn, called the ‘seasonal rise’ and this results in insulin and glucose fluctuations in both normal and those with an PPID/Equine Cushing’s disease. Horses can develop laminitis during August to December including horses on a very consistent diet (eg, hay only, no changes in fructans in grass for example)
2. Rising ACTH hormone levels can stimulate the production of cortisol, the ‘stress’ hormone - produced naturally during periods of excitement, pain, exercise, fear, trauma, and when there are infections - think of the situations this might manifest?
3. Higher cortisol makes veins less responsive to vasodilators, which can trigger foot pain if there is impaired circulation.
4. Higher cortisol, if production is high and sustained, can impair immune function, induce insulin resistance (or make it worse if already present), create electrolyte abnormalities, and reduced protein utilization.
5. High insulin which can accompany insulin dysregulation is a known risk factor for laminitis
6. Poor hoof morphology is associated with poor posture and development, pain, lameness, and altered blood supply to the hoof, therefore at higher risk of BOTH endocrinopathic AND mechanical laminitis
7. Cool temperatures and frosty grass can trigger laminitis connected to hormone changes increasing the risk due to high sugars in frosty grass and impared circulation in the hoof

Identifying vulnerable horses at risk…

1. Age - older horses naturally have higher ACTH levels, although PPID has been diagnosed in horses younger than 10 year of age
2. Horses with hooves with less than ideal hoof morphology (form and function), therefore less than ideal welfare parameters (see photo and background research and studies) which will have altered circulation, sometimes permanently.
3. Horses with unhealthy and compensatory posture and development and therefore less than ideal welfare parameters (see photos and background research and studies) which will result in altered load and circulation to the hooves, and associated lack of ideal hoof morphology. A negative cycle can develop between hoof and body, body and hoof.
4. Horses with a genetic predisposition for endocrine disease (esp PPID/Cushing’s EMR - equine metabolic disorder - and IR - Insulin Dysregulation)
5. Horses with higher than ideal ACTH, all year round or during the seasonal rise
6. Horses given an inappropriate diet, management, and welfare states
7. Horses with hoof care imposed on them which perpetuates or causes sub optimal welfare state, identified via externally verifiable objective evidence of physiology, postural and behavioural welfare parameters
8. Horses in chronic pain, chronic stress, or sub optimal regulation of the autonomic nervous system - this might be recognised as sub optimal behavioural welfare parameters and is perhaps more prevalant in the population that you think!

I recommend horse owners test ACTH levels in any horse considered at risk, at least once a year. Pergolide/prascend is a drug which helps control ACTH levels and can help promote healthier homeostasis or regulation of all the horses systems, and reduce laminitis risks.

To help prevent seasonal rise laminitis or laminitis at any time of the year, hoof care and horse care which promotes optimum welfare in horses is advised. This typically involves:

1. Species and welfare focused management which allows for the expression of natural behaviour and optimises neuro-muscular health and healthy homeostasis
2. Diet which best meets nutritional needs and welfare of horses in all stages of their life
3. Informed decision making and advocacy for horses which supports welfare, and includes appropriate exercise, training, interaction, hoof care and other necessary interventions of domestic horses to meet welfare needs.
4. Avoiding stress or interventions which may challenge homeostasis
5. Avoid frosty grass and high carb diet
6. Protect hooves from low temperatures

As an evidence based, welfare focused integrated hoof care provider, my role is to help owners provide the best HOOF and HORSE care to support optimum welfare state in their horse.

This is why I base my assessment AND gauge the impact of management and other interventions imposed based on current welfare and changes in welfare parameters over time; indicating the overall welfare state of an individual equine.

While this post cannot unravel and explain everything about this complex topic, my hope is that it causes pause for thought, and careful consideration of horses during the seasonal rise of ACTH.

Vulnerable horses especially need extra careful consideration of hoof health during this time.

The most disturbing statement I hear (often) after a consult is this:

“I wish I had known this sooner… I would have changed my hoof care for my horse beforehand”…

Most horses are lame. This is established in studies (see details for some in the comments), and in my considered experience, from my own documentation and opinion, this is increasing the risk of laminitis and other welfare issues, which for most, can be either avoided altogether, or minimised in their impact on welfare.

You may believe your hoof care provider is optimising welfare, but they may not. Question everything, seek objective evidence of welfare parameters, and ask “can we do better for his horse?”.

To take accountability, requires one to actually be accountable. Don’t believe everything you hear or read about laminitis. Fact check, apply critical thinking and reach out to established organisations and professionals with a proven track record of supporting optimal welfare parameters and laminitis.

Please, for the love of horses, take extra care of your horse, and those in your care, not only during the seasonal ACTH rise, but all year round 💚

Www.holisticequine.co.uk - supporting and promoting compassionate equestrianism for the benefit of all 💚🙏🐴

26/10/2025

WARNING - The recent posts circulating on social media regarding LAMINITIS and its cause is extremely damaging and will result in a rise in cases of laminitis and potentially the death of horses who's owners follow the advice and protocol given by the group/s advocating this.

Please report any posts that give cause for concern - it is the best chance we all have of shutting this down before any further damage is caused - reports can be sent to the National Equine Welfare Centre aswell as

There are far more of us who are appalled by this and sticking together than there are of them but their social media presence pushes them to the fore - please share and spread the word to get this movement stopped, to quite literally save the lives of horses!

The following groups, companies and individuals all stand against this and there are many more individuals raising concerns - this is a wide ranging problem and is reaching across the water!

Trickle Nets - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Cm8Fz2gmV/

The Study of the Equine Hoof - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GsTZnRV6f/

Claire Macleod MSc RNutr Independent Equine Nutritionist - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17NFTW7UNQ/

Putting in the Magic Pony Sanctuary - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1D8ELXrZT9/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16HxGkrmH1/

Finer Forage - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19XGTpsjmE/

Vikki Fear - Equine Podiatrist- https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14Udz29GHeu/

South Coast Equine Vets - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17ZXyVhscj/

Wesley Stewart APF-I - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16Q744PYns/

Trickle Net has no association to any business which does not align with our values in educating and supporting owners for the better health and wellbeing of their horses and ponies.

The recent claim made by HM and shared by GTL is reckless dangerous misinformation. This threatens the lives of horses and seeks to undermine the advice from true professionals, who only ever want the best for your horse. Not the views or the clicks or the drama. Only the health and happiness of your horse.

A personal message from our founder may follow.

15/08/2025

Finer Forage are one of my preferred ranges and now they have a product specifically to help CPL 👏

12/08/2025

Some of my eagle eyed and eared clients may have noticed that I differentiate when watching your horses walk up and on your reports 👍

FEELY, FOOTY, SORE — OR LAME?
Why sensation in the hoof is not automatically pain

A horse’s hoof is not just horn wrapped around bone. It is a living, weight-bearing sensory organ, richly supplied with nerves, blood vessels, and specialised receptors. These include mechanoreceptors that detect vibration, proprioceptors that monitor limb position, and nociceptors that register potentially harmful pressure or temperature extremes. All of these are constantly feeding information to the central nervous system.

This feedback is essential. It allows a horse to adapt stride length, limb placement, and weight distribution in fractions of a second. Without it, the horse is less able to move safely over uneven ground, avoid overloading a limb, or respond to changes in surface.

Which means: sensation is not only normal — it is necessary.
The presence of sensation does not automatically mean there is pain, injury, or pathology.

Feely

A horse that is feely is responding to increased sensory input. This often happens on surfaces that are unfamiliar, abrasive, or more variable than the horse’s daily environment. They may step more cautiously, shorten stride slightly, or pick a particular line. The movement change is subtle, proportional to the stimulus, and often disappears once the horse adapts. It’s a sign the hoof is doing its job as a sensory interface.

Footy

Footiness usually describes more obvious caution — perhaps intermittent reluctance to load fully, especially on hard, stony, or irregular ground. It may reflect early-stage overload, sole pressure from retained exfoliating material, thin soles, or simply a lack of conditioning to that terrain. Footiness can be transitional and benign, but it can also precede soreness if the cause isn’t addressed. The key is whether the horse returns to baseline comfort with rest, protection, or surface change.

Sore

Soreness indicates a level of discomfort that changes movement on most surfaces and in most contexts. It can arise from over-trimming, bruising, inflammation of the laminae, or other tissue stress. However, mild and short-lived soreness can also occur when previously unloaded structures (e.g., frog, bars, caudal hoof) begin to take load again during rehabilitation — a form of adaptive stimulus. Distinguishing between adaptive soreness and damaging overload requires close observation, history, and context.

Lame

Lameness is a clinical term: a repeatable, measurable asymmetry caused by pain or mechanical restriction. It is more than a response to an uncomfortable surface — it’s a movement change that persists across contexts or gaits. True lameness should always prompt veterinary evaluation to identify and address the cause. However, mislabelling normal sensory caution as “lameness” can lead to unnecessary interventions and may undermine trust between owners and professionals.

Why the distinction matters

If every altered step is seen as pathology, we risk overprotecting the foot, depriving it of the very stimulus it needs to adapt and strengthen. If we ignore clear signs of discomfort, we risk allowing reversible issues to progress to real injury. The hoof’s role as a sensory organ means some change in movement is expected when surfaces, load, or environmental factors change — especially in horses that aren’t fully conditioned for that challenge.

The right question is not simply “Is the horse sound?” but:
– What is the hoof reporting to the brain?
– Is the movement change proportional to the stimulus?
– Does it resolve with rest, protection, or adaptation?
– Is it protective (self-preserving), adaptive (strength-building), or pathological (damage-related)?

When we understand the difference between feeling, protecting, adapting, and true pain, we make better decisions — and give the horse the best chance to keep both its function and its feedback intact.