kengitysmuotoja

Kengitysmuotoja refers to the various ways horses are shod. This practice, known as farriery, involves attaching metal shoes to a horse's hooves to protect them from wear and tear, improve traction, or correct conformational defects. The type of shoe used depends on the horse's work, the terrain it travels on, and any specific hoof problems it may have.

Common types of shoes include standard steel or aluminum shoes, which are nailed onto the hoof. These are suitable for general riding and work. For horses that need extra grip, such as those used in racing or jumping, special shoes with added features like studs or toe grabs might be employed. Therapeutic shoes are designed to address specific lameness issues or hoof conditions, often providing support or altering pressure points. Materials can vary, with some horses wearing plastic or composite shoes which are lighter than traditional metal options and may offer different shock absorption qualities.

The process of applying shoes is a skilled craft performed by farriers. They must first trim the hoof to the correct shape and length before selecting and shaping the shoe to fit the individual hoof. The shoe is then attached using nails, carefully placed to avoid sensitive structures within the hoof. Regular re-shoeing is necessary as the hoof grows and the shoe wears down, typically every four to six weeks.