Introducing hoof boots

[asommerville]

On the advice of the farrier (,and my horse) he has to get hacked out and schooled in hoof boots. I have ordered cavalier simple boots, can anyone give any info on how to get him used to them?

 

[unbalanced]

I just put them on my pony and started riding once I had checked they fitted correctly. She didn't really notice. Did you do anything special to get him used to other boots like brushing or overreach? I didn't and they weren't a problem either.

 

[FfionWinnie]

I also just put them on and went for a hack. Horse who is 4, has never acknowledged them!

 

[lachlanandmarcus]

I would just lead the horse around in hand for a few minutes before getting on so you can check they really are on snugly and readjust if necessary before setting off, also it enables the horse to work through the 2 minute stage of sometimes doing the Ministry of Silly Walks (lifting legs in exaggerated fashion while they work out why their hoof feels different).

But Ive never heard of a horse who has a problems with them TBH, esp if they are used to travels boots or overreach boots but even if not.

 

[Kat]

I put them on in the stable and she walked about a bit doing the travel boots walk then she settled down and didn't bother. She wore them for turnout in the school and hand walking at first, then riding out.

 

[spookypony]

I just put them on my pony and off we went...led him around and did Ministry of Silly Walks for a few steps, but then was fine!

These were his thoughts on the matter, 3.5 years ago:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=295550

 

[Stroppy Mare]

I borrowed a pair of easyboot gloves, and literally whacked them on and walked away. Horse did a few 'oh what's on my feet?!' steps before settling down.

 

[Holly Hocks]

I use Cavallo simples for my TB - I put them on, walked her across the yard to check they weren't twisting and that was it - she never acknowledged them at all.