Hoof problems are among the most common causes of lameness and pain in horses, yet many horses receive insufficient farriery care due to cost and access barriers.
Neglected hooves cause chronic pain that may go unrecognised due to the stoic nature of horses and the gradual onset of problems. Laminitis, if not treated promptly and appropriately, causes severe chronic pain and is a leading reason for euthanasia. Regular farriery is not merely cosmetic but fundamental to horse welfare. Financial barriers, lack of owner knowledge, and access to skilled farriers are all barriers to adequate hoof care.