Working equines in low-income countries often suffer from severe hoof problems due to lack of farriery access and owner resources.
Poor hoof care in working equines creates a cycle of suffering and economic hardship. Animals with painful hooves cannot work efficiently, reducing family income, which in turn limits resources for veterinary care. Cracked hooves lead to infections; overgrown hooves alter gait mechanics and cause musculoskeletal pain throughout the limb and back. Local farriery training programs have proven highly effective at improving both welfare and working capacity simultaneously. The return on investment — measured in reduced animal suffering and improved family livelihoods — is among the highest in the international development and animal welfare intersection.