Making Farrier Appointments a Cooperative Experience

For many horse owners, hoof care appointments are a source of stress for both them and their horses. From pulling away during trims to shutting down emotionally, horses often communicate discomfort in subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways. Yet, these signals are frequently misunderstood or overlooked.

Horses show stress during hoof handling in a variety of ways. Some signs are overt, such as pulling their leg away, shifting their weight, kicking out, or refusing to stand still. Others are more subtle: anxious chewing, bolting food, or tension in the eyes and muzzle. In some cases, a horse might appear “calm” but is actually in a state of learned helplessness, internally shut down and disconnected. This can be especially dangerous, as it hides the true emotional state of the horse and may lead to explosive reactions later.

Even horses who “stand perfectly” might not be okay. A horse who holds their leg up without resistance regardless of position or duration isn’t necessarily cooperative. They may have simply given up trying to communicate discomfort. It’s a red flag, not a gold standard.

Sadly, this apathetic and perfectly compliant behavior is often promoted as the desired result of proper training. Training that is showcased all over the internet and even amongst the many very well recognized trainers. It looks good, it looks effective, it looks safe. So we nod our heads and accept that this is the way. 

Later, we are surprised when our horses kick “out of nowhere”, or when we start to learn more about equine body language and are confronted with the reality that our horses are not as happy as we once thought. This is challenging to accept and.. to know what to do next!

Learning to Listen Differently

One of the most powerful shifts in approaching hoof care is learning to recognize and respect subtle communication. Small behaviors such as gently pulling the leg, turning the head, shifting slightly away, or momentarily pausing can be meaningful signals. These behaviors offer insight into the horse’s comfort level and willingness to continue.

When horses are allowed to communicate and are rewarded for doing so in safe, appropriate ways, they begin to trust the process. With my own horses, I prefer these forms of soft communication over blind obedience. A slight avoidance tells me when a break is needed and prevents more intense resistance down the line that could be dangerous, and builds more trust and willingness in overall hoof handling.

Being able to advocate for these moments is essential, especially during professional appointments. Owners who can watch their horse closely and communicate respectfully with their farrier help ensure a safer, more positive experience for everyone involved.

When early signs of stress are ignored, whether by the owner, the farrier, or both, issues tend to escalate. Each difficult appointment increases the horse’s discomfort, making future visits more challenging. Over time, even routine hoof cleaning can become a trigger.

Unfortunately, many horses are repeatedly pushed through appointments under the assumption that stillness equals compliance. But compliance without communication isn’t the goal. True cooperation is built on mutual trust and the horse’s ability to express themselves freely without fear of correction or punishment.

Building Trust Through Training and Environment

Effective hoof handling doesn’t come from pushing horses to tolerate care. It comes from preparing them to participate in it. This includes addressing both the emotional and physical components of the experience.

From a physical perspective, horses need balance, strength, and comfort in their bodies to maintain hoof-lifting positions. For some, this might mean bodywork, targeted exercises, or adjustments in hoof handling technique. For others, it might involve pain management strategies or even medication, always in consultation with a veterinarian.

Emotionally, training with positive reinforcement and cooperative care principles allows the horse to feel in control. Small wins, such as lifting a foot and putting it back down with no pressure, build confidence and reduce fear. Consistency, patience, and reinforcement are key, especially when working with horses who have a history of trauma or anxiety around hoof care.

Supporting the Farrier-Horse-Human Partnership

Open communication with farriers is a key part of creating a positive and safe hoof care experience. Many professionals are willing to work with owners who are actively trying to improve the experience for their horses, especially when they see progress and feel supported.

Offering to pay by time instead of by the number of horses trimmed, sharing training goals, and showing commitment to ongoing practice can go a long way. It helps create a working relationship based on mutual respect and safety for everyone involved.

Hoof care is one of the most frequently repeated mandatory behaviors horses are asked to participate in. Unlike occasional vet visits or trailering, trims and cleanings happen often, sometimes weekly, sometimes daily. If those experiences are consistently stressful, they take a toll on the horse’s overall well-being.

Cortisol, trauma, and behavioral fallout don’t just disappear when the farrier leaves. These experiences can affect how the horse responds to everyday handling, training, and other care routines.

The good news is, it doesn’t have to be this way.

If you’d like to learn more about supporting your horse with their hoof handling, check out this discussion with Brianna Ferguson (Equine Bodyworker & Hoof Care Practitioner) and Adele Shaw (Certified Equine Behavior Consultant):

Ready to Change the Story?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsafe, or just stuck when it comes to hoof care, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Join Adele Shaw and The Willing Equine community for their virtual clinic on Cooperative Hoof Handling, happening July 12, 2025.

This live, interactive event is designed to help you:

• Understand the root causes behind hoof care struggles

• Learn how to train for calm, confident, cooperative hoof handling

• Receive personalized coaching or observe real-time support sessions

• Build skills, not just for your next trim but for a lifetime of safer, more positive care

  
  

Whether you're just starting out or deep into your positive reinforcement journey, this clinic will meet you where you are. And the best part? No travel, no stress. Just learning, support, and transformation from the comfort of home.

Become an Academy member and reserve your spot to audit the clinic! 

Let’s build a future where hoof care is something both horses and humans can look forward to. Together.