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Statements published are the opinions of the author listed and do not represent any position of Hoofcare Publishing or its employees. Statement by Pete Ramey, natural hoof trimmer: When healing any hoof problem or any locomotion problems caused by unnatural hoof form, regardless of whether a shoe is applied or not, the top priority should be to return the hoof to a more natural form. There are many points to Dr. Strasser's methods I agree with. The general approach to laminitis and navicular syndrome: natural diet, natural lifestyle changes, exercise, and barefootedness are parallel to the methods I am succeeding with every day. I totally agree that hoof problems are healed through competent trimming and feel that horseshoes generally stand in the way of true rehabilitation. I have found, however, that Dr. Strasser's attempts to push every hoof into precise parameters is a terrible idea. The heel height she is prescribing is only appropriate through natural wear and is seldom the right place to begin a trimming program. The sole and bar trimming is too invasive and leads to soreness and if continued, leads to long term breakdown of the coffin bone suspension within the hoof capsule. I am also disturbed by her unwillingness to rasp the outer wall to address flaring, and her 45 degree front and 55 degree hind toe angles. I have spoken to several of Dr. Strasser's own students who have found success by significantly modifying or ignoring her strict parameters. I challenge her to part with the rigidity of her theory and learn from her own successful students. Pete Ramey
© 1997-2001 Hoofcare & Lameness |
The
following summary statement has been issued by Pete Ramey, who served on
the panel at the recent Tufts conference on hoofcare. The panel was asked
to evaluate Dr Strasser's presentation on her program of natural
horsekeeping and barefoot hoof management.