problems with trimming back feet

[spottyfilly]

My mare is generally good for the farrier but we have noticed she gets very agitated when trimming her back feet, she is only 12 and relatively low mileage ( currently out of work also due to other problems)but the farrier commented on the possibility of arthritis. I dont think she is being naughty as she is a very level headed and sweet girl. she snatches her hoof away and cant hold it up for a long time. I will ask the vet next time shes out but just wanted to hear your views. thanks

 

[Andalucian]

Could be stiff in the hocks/hips, if its new behaviour its good to question it.

 

[TigerTail]

Do you practise holding her feet up for several mins at a time? And also bringing them forward to where they place them on a stand?

My mare used to really struggle standing for long on 3 legs and then it twigged, obv when picking out feet i whizz round to make her as comfy as poss, not thinking that her muscles need the training to be able to hold herself for the farrier.

She also likes her backs held very low, not hiked up high so position of the leg is something else the farrier needs to be flexible about.

 

[soloequestrian]

I do my three myself and have I a back problem. The position that suits all of us is to lift the back foot inwards - I put the hoof stand under their belly and use the short bit to put the foot on. My older mare was always uncomfy the way the farrier made her lift her leg to trim ie up and out from the body, but she finds this position quite comfortable. I also manage to sit on a milking stool to do the trimming! I do the inside of the hoof from the same side of the horse as the leg, and the outside of the hoof from the other side. Hopefully that makes sense... might be worth seeing if your farrier is open to trying a different position!