bringing barefoot mare into competition work

[WDBRAdora]

Hi all,

just brought a mare - 7 years old Kinsky who has done VERY light schooling this past year. Hoping to train her up and with any luck compete her at BSJA newcomers when the time is right. She is currently barefoot but has impeccable hooves that grow very slowly. Hacking is mostly off road where she is based. Farrier is coming next month but I want to have an idea on what to do with her feet.

Would you recommend I get her front ones done, all four or just leave her barefoot?

Thank you xxx

 

[be positive]

I would leave her barefoot for now, encourage growth by correct feeding and plenty of exercise, the feet grow as required so stimulating them by exercise actually helps them grow more and become stronger.
A lot of SJ is on surfaces at many venues, she should easily be able to jump BN/ Disco then later Newcomers with no need to shoe unless you find jumping on grass causes her to slip when you may have to shoe so you can stud but that seems to be some time in the future you can get started with her education with no need to shoe.