How to Set the Degree on Shoes for a Racking Horse

Racking horse farriery is a specialized skill. The farrier may use stacked, padded or weighted shoes to encourage an exaggerated motion in the show horse. These controversial techniques are performed to induce the horse to lift and reach with its hooves for visual effect in the show ring. They do not have any therapeutic or protective purpose, and change the natural movement and gaiting style of the horse. Special consideration is needed when applying any shoes and incorrect application may lead to criminal animal-abuse charges. Racking horses are shod as any other horse and the degree of the shoe is set to the natural angle of the hoof. Only in rare circumstances should the degree be altered.

Things You'll Need

  • Keg shoe
  • Farrier equipment: rasp, shoe puller, nippers
  • Horseshoe nails
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check that the hoof is in a healthy condition without excessive dryness, cracking or injury. Trot and ride the horse to check for lameness. Trim the front hooves for a slightly longer toe while keeping the foot balanced.

    • 2

      Check that the hoof angle reflects the natural slope of the hoof correlating to the angle of the pastern and shoulder. Use large corrections to "degree," under veterinary direction, or changes will lead to lameness and possible irreversible damage. Set degree changes to no more than 3 degrees to enhance gait and encourage proper breakover.

    • 3

      Walk and ride the horse after shoeing to check for gait abnormality or lameness, which can take days to occur. Place no objects between the pad and the sole of the hoof, if a pad is used, as this is illegal and will cause lameness.