Hot shoeing versus cold shoeing?
I prefer hot shoeing. But it is not always an option. It requires more time and equipment. Also, not every horse will tolerate the smoke or noise. There are several benefits to hot shoeing a horse: * It is better for the hoof as it allows for a perfect fit between the shoe and the hoof. With the searing you can tell where there is a gap, where something could become lodged, which might cause the shoe to loosen. * Hot shoeing cauterizes the foot. The foot consists of little tubes that are side by side. This allows for moisture and dirt and get in there. Cauterizing seals the tubes and acts like a barrier. * My best work has been done hot shoeing!
