When I pulled Skate out of his stall last night I thought I saw him take a funny step...but wasn't sure. He was super quiet while I tacked him up...almost snoozing in the aisle. I wondered if they ran around all day due to the crazy wind.
I took him out to the outdoor arena and hopped on - he was still ridiculously quiet, despite the strong breeze and dogs howling nearby. I kept getting an odd feeling that he was stepping down heavier on one side, but there was no head bob. I went ahead and warmed up and rode for about 20 min, anyway. I was having trouble getting him to move out and release his back...so I knew something was bothering him, but still couldn't pinpoint what it was. After doing spiral in to TOF tracking left, it revealed itself in the left front. The farrier must have misplaced a nail during his reset that morning.
Anyway, I was supposed to have a lesson Saturday morning, but I may have to cancel that if the farrier can't make it out to reset Skate's shoe or the reset doesn't work. We shall see. Maybe this is a push to take Skate barefoot. I hate dealing with shoes and Skate's feet, although tiny, are pretty solid.
7 comments:
I'm sorry to hear that. What a stoic guy though. I hope you get it fixed soon and can get back to work.
If you need something to ride this weekend, take the drive down 77 and come work this hunter pony or Desi. It will be fun!
Awww, poor Skate!!
I had Pro's shoes pulled the day I got him and never looked back since. :) But it is an individual decision, so I wish you luck in choosing the best one for both you and Skate. If you do choose barefoot though, make sure you can find someone who knows what they're doing! Pro's heels were underrun and it took Gayle a bit to fix them.
Yeah, my farrier is not a barefoot trimmer, for sure. I had a mare before Hobbes that I did the all-out barefoot thing with, even learned to trim myself!
I think this farrier is decent, but not the best I've used. If the horse comes in with good feet, he can maintain, but I don't think he's a natural at fixing someone else's mess.
Alex, that would be fun! Even if I don't do it this weekend - I should come sometime soon.
Gabby, just email me doubleatraining@gmail.com and I'll give you my cell number. You can come anytime!
We are videotaping Hope tomorrow afternoon.
Hope he bounces back quickly. Swapping farriers sounds like a big headache, but if you think Skate would be happy barefoot, probably worth it. It'd at least be easier on your wallet!
Poor Skate! I hate to hear that. I know what you mean about shoes. They can be a hassle, for sure. I hope everything works out that you can still have your lesson. I seriously want to take you up on meeting at Tanglewood sometime, too, but Skate needs to feel better!
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