The Hoofcare Companion

Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Nature

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. 5d ago

    Extensor Tendons - The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions

    In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the extensor tendons of the equine forelimb and hind limb. Understanding these important structures is essential for farriers, veterinary professionals and equine science students, as they play a key role in normal locomotion, limb stability and the diagnosis of lameness. We'll discuss the principal extensor tendons of both the forelimb and hind limb, including their origin, route, insertion and function, before examining their clinical significance and how injuries can affect movement and performance. You'll also discover why extensor tendon injuries often carry a more favourable prognosis than flexor tendon injuries and why this knowledge is valuable when assessing horses in everyday practice. This episode has been designed as an educational resource for farriery apprentices, qualified farriers, veterinary surgeons, equine veterinary nurses, equine physiotherapists, equine science students and horse owners wishing to develop a deeper understanding of equine anatomy. To support inclusive learning and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), this episode includes clearly defined learning outcomes, a readable companion article and five retrieval questions to reinforce learning and improve long-term knowledge retention. Learning Outcomes By the end of this episode, you should be able to: Describe the anatomy of the extensor tendons of the equine forelimb and hind limb, including their origin, route and insertion.Explain the primary functions of the extensor tendons during locomotion and their role in maintaining normal limb movement.Recognise the clinical significance of extensor tendon injuries and understand how knowledge of their anatomy assists farriers in assessing lameness and planning appropriate farriery interventions.Retrieval Questions Name the two principal extensor tendons found in the equine forelimb and the two principal extensor tendons found in the hind limb.Where does the common digital extensor tendon insert, and why is this attachment important for normal locomotion?What are the primary functions of the extensor tendons during the swing phase of the stride?Which nerves supply the extensor muscles of the forelimb and hind limb, and what gait abnormality may occur if these nerves are damaged?Why do extensor tendon injuries generally have a better prognosis than injuries to the superficial or deep digital flexor tendons?Thank you for listening to The Hoofcare Companion. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider following the podcast, leaving a review and sharing it with colleagues, fellow students and other equine professionals. Your support helps make evidence-based farriery education accessible to a wider audience. 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

    Extensor Tendons - The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions

  2. 5d ago

    Las sesiones de conocimiento de 5 minutos - Tendones extensores de las extremidades delanteras y traseras

    En este episodio de El Compañero del Cuidado de Casco, exploramos la anatomía y función de los tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras de los caballos. Entender estas estructuras importantes es esencial para herradores, profesionales veterinarios y estudiantes de ciencia equina, ya que juegan un papel clave en la locomoción normal, la estabilidad de las extremidades y el diagnóstico de cojera. Hablaremos de los principales tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras, incluyendo su origen, recorrido, inserción y función, antes de examinar su importancia clínica y cómo las lesiones pueden afectar el movimiento y el rendimiento. También descubrirás por qué las lesiones de los tendones extensores suelen tener un pronóstico más favorable que las lesiones de tendones flexores y por qué este conocimiento es valioso al evaluar caballos en la práctica diaria. Este episodio ha sido diseñado como un recurso educativo para aprendices de herrería, herradores cualificados, veterinarios, enfermeros veterinarios equinos, fisioterapeutas equinos y estudiantes de ciencia equina. 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

    Las sesiones de conocimiento de 5 minutos - Tendones extensores de las extremidades delanteras y traseras

  3. May 19

    Episode 20 - Navicular Syndrome

    The Final Episode in the Series In the final episode of this educational farriery series, Marc Jerram takes a deep dive into one of the most discussed and challenging causes of chronic forelimb lameness in the horse, navicular syndrome. This episode explores the modern understanding of navicular syndrome and explains why it is no longer viewed as a disease of the navicular bone alone, but rather as a complex condition involving the entire navicular apparatus including the deep digital flexor tendon, navicular bursa, ligaments and surrounding soft tissues within the foot. Marc breaks down the anatomy and biomechanics of the navicular region in a practical and easy to understand format before discussing how poor hoof balance, conformation, workload and management can contribute to degeneration and chronic pain within the caudal foot. Throughout the episode listeners will gain a detailed understanding of: The anatomy and function of the navicular bone and surrounding structures The early warning signs and clinical presentation of navicular syndrome How biomechanics and hoof conformation influence disease progression The role of long toes, underrun heels and poor breakover The pathogenesis of navicular related degeneration Nutritional and dietary considerations for hoof health and inflammation Modern veterinary diagnostics including MRI and diagnostic nerve blocks Veterinary treatment options including medications, regenerative therapies and surgery Static and dynamic gait assessment of horses with navicular pain Therapeutic farriery approaches including trimming strategies and corrective shoeing The use of raised heels, egg bar shoes, Memphis bar shoes, pads and wedge systems Barefoot rehabilitation and the use of hoof boots in selected cases Long term management, prognosis and quality of life considerations This episode is designed for farriers, veterinary professionals, equine students and horse owners wanting a clearer understanding of one of the most important conditions affecting equine soundness and performance. Thank you for following this podcast series and supporting The Hoofcare Companion throughout its educational journey. We hope these episodes have helped expand your knowledge, improve your practical understanding and encourage continued discussion surrounding evidence based hoof care and farriery. If you have enjoyed the series, please follow, rate and share the podcast to help support future educational content. 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

    Episode 20 - Navicular Syndrome

  4. May 5

    Episode 19 - The Frog and its associated pathologies

    In this episode, we explore one of the most important yet often overlooked structures in the equine hoof — the frog. From its role in shock absorption and circulation to its importance as a diagnostic reference point in farriery, this episode breaks down everything you need to know in a clear and practical way. We also explore common frog pathologies, how they develop, and most importantly how to treat and prevent them effectively in real-world farriery practice. 📚 What You’ll Learn  The anatomy and structure of the frog  The function of the frog in movement, circulation, and stability  Why the frog is critical for hoof balance and assessment  Best practices for correct frog trimming  How hoof conformation influences frog development ⚠️ Conditions Covered We break down the key frog pathologies every farrier and equine professional should understand: Thrush – causes, treatment, and prevention Canker – recognising and managing this aggressive condition Sheared Heels – how imbalance affects the frog Frog Atrophy – why it happens and how to reverse it Puncture Wounds – risks, complications, and treatment approaches 🛠️ Practical Takeaways  How to approach frog trimming without compromising function  Proven treatment strategies used in modern farriery  Environmental and management changes that make a real difference  When to involve veterinary support  How to use the frog as a guide for balance and internal hoof structures 🎧 Who This Episode Is For  Farriers (students to experienced professionals)  Equine vets and vet nurses  Horse owners wanting a deeper understanding of hoof health  Anyone interested in improving equine soundness and performance 💡 Key Message The frog is not just passive tissue, it is a dynamic, functional structure that reflects the overall health of the hoof. Understanding it properly can transform how you approach trimming, shoeing, and rehabilitation. 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

    Episode 19 - The Frog and its associated pathologies

  5. Apr 21

    Episode 18 - The Use of Hoof Boots in Modern Farriery Practice

    Hoof boots are transforming modern farriery—but are you using them correctly? In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram breaks down everything you need to know about hoof boots, from their historical origins to their role in performance, barefoot management, and rehabilitation. Whether you're a farrier, vet, or horse owner, this episode will help you understand when, why, and how to use hoof boots effectively—and avoid the common mistakes that lead to poor outcomes. 🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:  The evolution of hoof protection from ancient methods to modern boots  The key differences between hoof boots and traditional shoeing  Why hoof boots are essential for barefoot horses  How to assess the hoof correctly before fitting  The pros and cons of leading hoof boot brands  How hoof boots support rehabilitation and laminitis cases  Common fitting mistakes and how to avoid them 🐎 Brands & Products Mentioned Scoot Boots  Flex Boots  Equine Fusion  Cavallo  Renegade Hoof Boots  Pioneer Sport  EasyCare / Easyboot range ⚙️ Who This Episode Is For  Farriers looking to expand their skillset  Veterinary professionals involved in hoof care  Horse owners transitioning to barefoot  Riders wanting better performance and hoof protection  Anyone interested in modern, evidence-based hoof careSupport 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

    Episode 18 - The Use of Hoof Boots in Modern Farriery Practice

  6. Apr 7

    Episode 17- Interference injuries involving the hoof

    Interference injuries are more than just knocks and cuts, they’re often a sign of deeper biomechanical inefficiencies within the horse. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes a detailed look at the causes, types, and farriery strategies used to manage interference. From forging and overreach to brushing and toe drag, we break down how and why these injuries occur, and most importantly, how farriers can assess and address them through effective trimming and shoeing techniques. Whether you're a practicing farrier, apprentice, or equine professional, this episode provides practical insights into improving movement, reducing injury, and enhancing overall performance. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode  What interference injuries really indicate about a horse’s movement  The key differences between overreach, forging, and brushing  How conformation influences limb flight and injury risk  The importance of static vs dynamic assessment  How breakover timing affects interference  The role of radiography in diagnosing imbalance  Practical trimming strategies to improve hoof balance  Shoeing techniques including:  Safed off shoes  Rolled and square toe designs  Trailer shoes and asymmetric shoeing  Use of studs, pins, and traction devices 🐎 Key Takeaways Interference is rarely random, it’s usually the result of imbalance, poor timing, or conformational predisposition. By focusing on accurate assessment and targeted farriery, you can significantly reduce injury risk and improve locomotor efficiency. 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

    Episode 17- Interference injuries involving the hoof

  7. Mar 25

    Episode 16 - Hoofcare for the Dressage Horse

    In this episode, we explore the precision of shoeing the dressage horse, from Intro level through to Grand Prix. Learn how different movements influence hoof loading, how to assess the horse both statically and dynamically, and how shoeing strategies adapt to surfaces, conformation, and performance demands. We cover trimming principles, shoe selection, barefoot management, and the importance of working alongside vets and physiotherapists to support long-term soundness. A practical, evidence-based guide for farriers working with the modern dressage athlete. 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

    Episode 16 - Hoofcare for the Dressage Horse

  8. Mar 11

    Episode 15 - Cushings Disease - A Complete Overview

    Cushings disease, correctly termed pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, is one of the most important endocrine disorders affecting the ageing horse and a leading underlying cause of laminitis and chronic hoof pathology. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram delivers a clear, farriery focused overview of Cushings disease, explaining how pituitary dysfunction leads to widespread metabolic, vascular, and immune changes that often manifest first within the hoof. The episode explores thorough assessment of the Cushings affected horse, common and subtle clinical signs, laminitis risk, and the farrier’s role in early recognition. Veterinary diagnostics, medical treatment, and the importance of collaboration between farrier and vet are discussed, alongside practical hoof management strategies aimed at reducing mechanical stress and supporting long term comfort. This episode is essential listening for farriers, veterinarians, and horse owners seeking a deeper understanding of Cushings disease and its impact on hoof health, laminitis, and lifelong 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

    Episode 15 - Cushings Disease - A Complete Overview
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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
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Hoofcare Companion
  • Show Website
    The Hoofcare Companion

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