The Hoofcare Companion

Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier
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The Hoofcare Companion is your perfect podcast to learn all about the hoof of the horse. Bitesized episodes of in depth knowledge backed up with peer reviewed science. Take your expertise to the next level with The Hoofcare Companion

  1. Episode 11 - Medio-Lateral balance of the hoof

    5D AGO

    Episode 11 - Medio-Lateral balance of the hoof

    Medio-lateral balance is one of the most influential and most misunderstood principles in farriery. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore what medio-lateral balance really means, why visual symmetry can be misleading, and how poor balance contributes to long term lameness and pathology. Marc explores how farriers should assess medio-lateral balance both statically and dynamically, explains how conformation dictates loading patterns, and discusses why trimming and shoeing decisions must always respect the horse’s functional anatomy. From long-axis assessment of the forelimb and hindlimb to the role of radiography in modern farriery, this episode provides practical, evidence based insight for working farriers, students, and equine professionals alike. ⏱️ Episode Chapters / Key Topics What medio-lateral balance really means in farrieryCommon misconceptions around “level” feetWhy functional balance matters more than visual symmetryStatic assessment: what to observe before lifting the footUsing the coronary band, hoof capsule, and growth patterns as indicatorsAssessing medio-lateral balance through the long axisDynamic assessment at walk and trotUnderstanding landing patterns, stance phase, and breakoverHow discipline and surface influence medio-lateral forcesConformational faults and their impact on hoof loadingToe-in, toe-out, base narrow, and base wide horses explainedThe role of radiography in accurate balance assessmentForelimb assessment and weight-bearing considerationsHindlimb assessment and propulsion-related imbalancesPathologies linked to chronic medio-lateral imbalanceTrimming strategies: restraint, precision, and gradual correctionShoeing options for managing imbalanceBar shoes, spiral lifts, pads, and frog support explainedLong-term management versus short-term correctionKey take-home messages for farriers and hoofcare professionals🎯 Who This Episode Is For Working farriersFarriery apprentices and studentsEquine vets and therapistsEducators and exam candidatesHorse owners interested in hoof biomechanics🧠 Key Takeaways Medio-lateral balance is functional, not cosmeticVisual symmetry does not always equal correct loadingConformation dictates how forces travel through the limbLong-axis assessment is critical for accurate evaluationRadiography can reveal hidden imbalances within the footOver-correction can be as damaging as no correctionSmall, incremental changes produce the best long-term outcomes🔧 Practical Skills Covered Static and dynamic balance assessmentLong-axis limb evaluationIdentifying compensatory hoof distortionsInterpreting wear patterns and landing preferencesSelecting appropriate trimming and shoeing strategiesSupport the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    23 min
  2. Episode 10 - Hoof Wall Cracks

    12/31/2025

    Episode 10 - Hoof Wall Cracks

    Hoof wall cracks are one of the most commonly encountered yet frequently misunderstood conditions in equine hoof care. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at hoof wall cracks, breaking down the different types, why they occur, how they affect soundness, and how farriers and veterinarians can work together to manage them effectively. From superficial cosmetic defects to painful, performance-limiting cracks, this episode explains how hoof anatomy, biomechanics, trimming, shoeing, environment, and nutrition all play a role. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to assess cracks both statically and dynamically, when veterinary diagnostics are required, and what realistic long-term outcomes look like. Whether you’re a farrier, veterinary professional, student, or an owner wanting a deeper understanding of hoof health, this episode provides practical, evidence-based insight grounded in real-world hoof care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode In this episode, we discuss: What hoof wall cracks are and why they developThe anatomy and biomechanics of the hoof wallVertical versus horizontal hoof wall cracksComplete and incomplete cracks explainedSensitive and non-sensitive cracks and their clinical relevanceToe cracks and quarter cracks: why location mattersCommon mechanical, environmental, nutritional, and pathological causesRecognising clinical signs and indicators of painStatic visual assessment of hoof wall cracksDynamic assessment and how movement influences crack progressionWhen and why veterinary diagnostics are requiredTrimming principles for managing cracked hoovesShoeing strategies to stabilise and unload the hoof capsuleLong-term management strategies and realistic prognosisWho This Episode Is For This episode is particularly relevant for: Registered and apprentice farriersEquine veterinarians and vet nursesFarriery and equine science studentsHoof care professionalsOwners managing horses with recurring hoof wall issuesKey Takeaway Hoof wall cracks are rarely a simple surface problem. Effective management depends on understanding hoof biomechanics, identifying the underlying causes, and applying consistent, long-term farriery and management strategies rather than short-term cosmetic fixes. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    16 min
  3. Christmas Special - How to shoe a racehorse

    12/25/2025

    Christmas Special - How to shoe a racehorse

    In this Christmas Special of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram reflects on the demands of elite racehorse farriery while thanking listeners for their incredible support throughout 2025. This episode takes a deep dive into the specialised art and science of shoeing the Thoroughbred racehorse — an athlete operating at the absolute limits of biomechanical performance. From breed-specific hoof challenges to trimming protocols, shoe selection, and the key differences between flat and National Hunt racing, this episode brings together practical farriery insight with evidence-based understanding. Whether you’re working on the track, in training yards, or managing performance horses in other disciplines, this episode highlights how precision hoofcare underpins soundness, performance, and career longevity. 🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why racehorse farriery is different Understanding the extreme forces placed on the hoof at racing speeds and why small errors can have major consequences.Thoroughbred hoof characteristics Thin walls, shallow soles, long pasterns, and how selective breeding for speed influences hoof integrity and injury risk.Static & dynamic hoof assessment The importance of evaluating balance, hoof–pastern axis, landing patterns, breakover, and how movement reveals issues unseen at rest.Conservative trimming protocols Why horn preservation is critical in racehorses and how functional balance matters more than cosmetic symmetry.Shoes & shoeing strategies Aluminium vs steel shoes, toe clips, breakover modifications, heel support, and surface-specific considerations.Flat racing vs National Hunt shoeing Key differences in speed, endurance, traction, durability, and how shoeing strategies adapt between disciplines.Common Thoroughbred foot problems Thin soles, underrun heels, white line disease, poor horn quality, and how farriery plays a preventative role.Collaboration in elite hoofcare The importance of teamwork between farrier, veterinarian, and trainer in managing soundness and performance.🎄 Christmas Message Marc also takes a moment to thank listeners, guests, and supporters for being part of The Hoofcare Companion throughout 2025, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and all the best for a sound, successful, and progressive 2026. 🎧 Who This Episode Is For Farriers working with racehorses or performance horsesEquine veterinarians and studentsTrainers and industry professionalsAnyone interested in elite hoof biomechanics and applied farriery📌 Subscribe & Support If you’ve enjoyed The Hoofcare Companion this year, please subscribe, share the podcast with colleagues, and leave a review — your support helps keep evidence-based hoofcare conversations moving forward. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    15 min
  4. Episode 8 - Hoof Pastern Axis

    12/14/2025

    Episode 8 - Hoof Pastern Axis

    In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take a look into one of the most fundamental yet often misunderstood concepts in farriery and hoof care: the hoof pastern axis. Using anatomy, biomechanics, and real world farriery principles, this episode explains what a normal hoof pastern axis looks like, why it matters for soundness and performance, and how broken back and broken forward alignments affect the horse over time. We explore how trimming and shoeing choices influence internal structures, why visual assessment alone can be misleading, and how radiographs have transformed modern hoof care decision making. This episode is essential listening for farriers, veterinarians, and hoof care professionals who want to improve long term outcomes rather than chase cosmetic balance. What You Will Learn in This Episode In this episode we cover what the hoof pastern axis actually represents anatomically and biomechanically and why it is more than just a straight line on the side of the foot. We explain how the alignment of the pastern bones and distal phalanx influences load distribution through joints tendons and ligaments during movement. You will learn how a normal hoof pastern axis supports efficient locomotion shock absorption and tendon function and why there is no single ideal hoof angle that suits every horse. We also discuss why breed type discipline and individual conformation must always be considered when assessing alignment. The episode breaks down the broken back hoof pastern axis in detail including how long toes and low or underrun heels develop over time and why this alignment places increased strain on the deep digital flexor tendon navicular apparatus and suspensory structures. We discuss the early warning signs farriers should look for and the long term consequences if the imbalance is left unaddressed. We also explore the broken forward hoof pastern axis including upright and club foot type presentations and why aggressive heel lowering can sometimes do more harm than good. The episode explains how concussion loading changes in these feet and why some horses cope better than others depending on workload and surface. Finally we look at how to balance conformation function and intervention using radiographs dynamic assessment and collaborative work between farrier and veterinarian to support soundness rather than force visual ideals. Who This Episode Is For This episode is designed for professional farriers apprentice farriers equine veterinarians veterinary nurses and serious horse owners who want a deeper understanding of hoof biomechanics. It is particularly relevant for those working with performance horses managing chronic foot issues or looking to improve long term soundness through evidence based hoof care. Key Discussion Themes The anatomical definition and function of the hoof pastern axis Why external hoof appearance does not always reflect internal alignment The biomechanical differences between normal broken back and broken forward axes How trimming and shoeing influence tendon and joint loading The role of radiographs in modern farrSupport the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    18 min
  5. Episode 7 - Angular limb deformities in foals

    12/03/2025

    Episode 7 - Angular limb deformities in foals

    In this episode, we explore Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs) in foals—one of the most important developmental challenges faced by breeders, farriers, and equine veterinarians. These early-life limb deviations can influence a horse’s long-term soundness, athletic potential, and overall welfare. This conversation unpacks what ALDs are, how they develop, how to diagnose them, and the full spectrum of modern treatment options. • What Are Angular Limb Deformities? Definitions of valgus and varus deviationsCommonly affected joints: carpus, fetlock, tarsusWhy early identification is crucial• The Anatomy Behind ALDs The role of growth plates (physes) in young foalsHow asymmetric growth creates crooked limbsWhy mild carpal valgus in newborns is often normal—and when it isn’t• Causes and Risk Factors We explore both congenital and acquired causes, including: Incomplete ossification in premature or dysmature foalsTrauma to physes and soft tissue supportRapid growth rates and mineral imbalancesEnvironmental loading factors (footing, trimming)Genetic predisposition in certain lines• Clinical Signs to Look For How to assess a foal from the front and rearDistinguishing true ALDs from rotational issuesSubtle signs that deformities are worseningConsequences of leaving ALDs untreated• Diagnostic Tools Radiography as the gold standardWhat imaging reveals about deviation severity and growth potentialWhen ultrasonography adds value• Conservative Management Strategies How controlled exercise helps (and when it doesn’t)Corrective trimming principles for valgus and varusUse of extensions, glue-ons, and wedgesThe importance of balanced young-stock nutrition• Surgical Options for Moderate–Severe ALDs Periosteal stripping: When it works and why age mattersTransphyseal bridging: How implants guide growth correctionRare but possible: osteotomy for severe late-stage cases• Prognosis & Long-Term Outlook Which cases resolve on their ownAge-related windows for effective correctionPotential long-term issues if treatment is delayedRealistic athletic expectations for corrected foals• Prevention & Early Monitoring Managing the pregnant mare’s dietFooting, exercise, and early handlingWeekly limb assessments in the first monthThe importance of vet–farrier collaboration📚 Key Takeaways ALDs are common but highly treatable when identified early.Farriery, nutrition, management, and veterinary intervention form a single, coordinated system.With early correction, most foals enjoy excellent long-term soundness.📖 References This episode draws on established research by Adams & Stashak, O’Grady & Poupard, Ralston, Redding & O’Grady, Santschi et al., and Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    15 min
  6. Episode 6 - The role of macrominerals in hoof health

    11/19/2025

    Episode 6 - The role of macrominerals in hoof health

    In this episode, we explore how the major dietary macrominerals calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and sulphur shape the health of the equine hoof from the inside out. We break down the biological roles of each mineral, their influence on keratin formation, circulation, immune function, and inflammation control, and how imbalances can lead to structural hoof defects or systemic health issues. What You’ll Learn: How calcium supports keratinisation and immune cell signallingWhy the calcium–phosphorus ratio is crucial for healthy hoof developmentThe role of magnesium in keratin production, stress regulation, and inflammation controlPotassium’s importance in fluid balance, vascular function, and immune activationWhy sodium and chloride deficiency is common and how it affects hydration, circulation, and immunitySulphur’s essential role in keratin strength and antioxidant processesHow macromineral imbalances contribute to conditions such as laminitis, poor hoof horn quality, and systemic inflammationPractical feeding considerations and when supplementation may be beneficialKey Takeaway: Hoof health doesn’t begin at the hoof, it begins in the diet. Understanding macrominerals empowers farriers, vets, and horse owners to support stronger hooves, better immunity, and reduced inflammation through informed nutritional management. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    18 min
  7. Episode 5 - Pedal Bone Fractures

    11/05/2025

    Episode 5 - Pedal Bone Fractures

    In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram explores one of the most significant yet often misunderstood hoof injuries — pedal bone fractures. Joined by expert insights from veterinary and farriery perspectives, Marc breaks down how these fractures occur, how they’re classified, and the latest approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the vital role of radiography, therapeutic shoeing, and owner management during recovery, as well as how farriers and vets can work together to support long term soundness. Whether you’re a farrier, vet, or dedicated horse owner, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can apply in the field.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    14 min
  8. 🇪🇸 Episodio 5 - Fracturas del hueso del pedal

    11/05/2025

    🇪🇸 Episodio 5 - Fracturas del hueso del pedal

    En este episodio de The Hoofcare Companion, el presentador Marc Jerram analiza una de las lesiones del casco más importantes pero a menudo mal comprendidas: las fracturas del hueso pedial. Con la participación de expertos en veterinaria y herrería, Marc explica cómo se producen estas fracturas, cómo se clasifican y cuáles son los métodos más recientes para su diagnóstico, tratamiento y rehabilitación. Los oyentes descubrirán la importancia de la radiografía, el herraje terapéutico y la gestión del propietario durante la recuperación, además de cómo la colaboración entre herradores y veterinarios es clave para lograr una recuperación completa. Un episodio imprescindible para herradores, veterinarios y propietarios de caballos que desean profundizar en el cuidado del casco equino.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

    14 min
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About

The Hoofcare Companion is your perfect podcast to learn all about the hoof of the horse. Bitesized episodes of in depth knowledge backed up with peer reviewed science. Take your expertise to the next level with The Hoofcare Companion

Information

  • Creator
    Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Hoofcare Companion
  • Show Website
    The Hoofcare Companion

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