[Minihorselover]

Hi, I have a mini horse but I do not know how to trim her hooves. Can you help me? They do not need done now but would like to know how when the time comes.

Thanks!

[Wondergirl]

You would be wise to have a farrier (or large-animal vet) show you the first time, so you will know how to do it without hurting her. Some horses don't like their legs touched or lifted, so he will show you how to handle her too.

[Minihorselover]

Thanks, Her name is Twobits she is the sweetest thing ever!! she's all black with 4 white socks

[shazamataz]

Training them to lift their feet can be fairly easy, you just start with baby steps, running your hand down her legs and getting her used to being touched. Working up to manipulating the bottom joint.

I would get a farrier in as WG said to show you hands on exactly what needs to be done. They can be pricey but well worth it if you have a naughty horse.

[Minihorselover]

K thanks.

[Schoolmarm97]

I agree that a shoer is the first one to call to do this job. But you should be fussing over her and running your hands over her legs daily so that when the time comes, she'll respond well.

You didn't mention how old this mini is or where you got her. If she's not a newborn foal, then she's most likely had her feet trimmed before, so it's more a case of YOU learning how to handle the horse than about the horse learning how to be handled. Be matter-of-fact. Many minis (like MINE, for instance!) are neurotic about sudden changes, sudden movements, and feeling as if the person caring for them is an idiot. Mine taught me that early on, and I had hoofprints on my chest to show for it. His small size made me feel as if I needed to be cautious around him to avoid hurting him (I've owned 14 big horses and worked with dozens, but he was the first mini) or scaring him. As a result, I scared the heck out of him! Horses look to the human in control for confidence in the situation, so be confident. Don't do more than you know how to do, and handle her daily to get to know her and let her know you.

[MiniHoofTrimmer]

Some horse owners have the ability to learn the "skills" needed to trim their horses or miniature horses hooves. As a professional miniature horse trimmer, I have found cases where the owner can be shown how to properly trim a hoof to be flat, level and balanced to the horse's individual needs and conformation. You cannot learn how to do this by reading about it or watching a video; it must be hands on learning on your own minis because one 'trim' does not fill 'all minis' and some are more upright in their conformation or have foundered and need special attention. Find a farrier or professional trimmer who is open to showing you the right way to trim your mini.