Basic Information to Know About a Horse Hoof Tester Before Using

Hooves of a horse need more care than any other part of their body this is the main reason why special farrier service providers are available in the market. Farrier services comprise every single aspect from hoof reshaping to nailing the right horseshoes. This job requires expertise hands because you have to handle every task with manual tools. Horseshoe and farrier suppliers provide a large variety of tools including hoof loop knives, buffers, clenchers, nail pullers, hammers, hoof testers and rasps etc. While using a hoof tester tool, a person must be confident and experienced enough to use the tool proficiently. Below is some information elaborating on the importance of horse hoof tester in detail. 

Hoof Tester

Why do you need to use a hoof tester with extra care?

Domestic horses meant for sports or entertainment industry mostly spend their time in stables. Consequently, their hooves grow excessively and become sensitive from some points. Another major reason for sensitivity or pain is their performance during the race or other games. It is the duty if a farrier service provider to make sure that the hooves of a horse are in healthy condition. Not only for running and walking but healthy hooves are also important to examine while nailing a horseshoe. Here comes the role of a hoof tester. It is a specifically designed pincher made with steel to apply pressure on the pain points. A typical hoof testing tool has different parts that we are going to mention below:- 

  • Reins:- The long steel handle that we hold while testing.
  • Jaws:- The curved areas meant for applying pressure from both sides.
  • Stops:- The ending of jaws forged in teeth shape to prevent tips crossing.

Tapping hoof with a hammer cannot serve the purpose because we need to identify the exact pain point. Whether a horse is suffering from foot bone disease, injuries, punctures or bruises, a hoof tester is capable of identifying the critical area perfectly. When a veterinarian or farrier professional applies pressure from both sides, the horse’s reaction for inflammation signifies the actual problem. If you are a beginner and still learning how to use the tool proficiently, it is advisable to go with the option of a spring gauge hoof tester. It helps in applying the right amount of pressure precisely. 

Hoof testing is a regular process to check the painful areas of a lame horse. As a professional farrier, you need to attain the utmost perfection in using the tool. Also, always prefer certified horseshoe and farrier suppliers to maintain the quality standard of your farrier shop.

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