On June 12th we are running a 10K race to raise money so that our hard working therapy horses have healthy hooves and horseshoes.

Horseshoes and farrier visits are vital for a horse's health with new shoes needed every 4-6 weeks.

Due to the importance hooves play in a horse's overall wellbeing, and because we like to use our own 'hooves', we are running the Turks Head 10K race organised by Bearcat Running Club.

Why is hoof health so important and what does the farrier do to keep them healthy?

Hooves are cleverly designed by nature to balance the horse's weight and protect the foot with natural shock absorbers. Horses balance around 60% of their bodyweight in the front feet (which is why horses often only have shoes on the front two feet) and hooves grow continuously and become very painful if they're not worn down naturally or trimmed regularly by a farrier.

When a farrier visits, they don't just apply horseshoes either. One of their most important tasks is to trim the hooves to ensure both the horse's comfort, and to maintain his balance, as well as checking that the foot is healthy.

In addition, a farrier needs to know his 'customers' and the horse needs to trust the farrier if they're to give their feet to be trimmed and perhaps shod, with all the attendant noise and smell. This is why a good, sensitive farrier is such an important team member at any stables, ours included. Thank you Charlie! (pictured in the main image with bay gelding Des)

We hope you have enjoyed this brief hoof 101, and we'll see you at the races!

About us

We are a registered RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) centre with a wide programme of activities, including assisted riding, horse care, carriage driving, and hippotherapy. We daily see how being around horses enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities or learning difficulties. Whether on the autistic spectrum, visually impaired, or a full-time wheelchair user, we offer activities that can help improve confidence, skills and self-esteem, set within a supportive and friendly environment. All sessions are run by fully trained RDA instructors and DBS-checked volunteers.

Head over to our homepage to find out more about what we do.

Thank you!

A big thank from everyone at Park Lane Stables, without you we would not be able to do the work we do!

Park Lane Stables RDA Charity No: 1161306 | Registered with the Fundraising Regulator of England, Wales and Northern Ireland