kengitystä

Kengitys is a Finnish term referring to the act of shoeing a horse. This involves fitting and attaching metal shoes to the hooves of a horse. The practice is primarily done to protect the hooves from wear and tear, especially when horses are used for work, sport, or transportation on hard surfaces. It can also be used to correct hoof problems or provide therapeutic support.

The process of kengitys is typically performed by a farrier, a skilled craftsman trained in equine hoof care. The farrier first trims the horse's hoof to the correct shape and length. Then, a horseshoe, often made of steel or aluminum, is heated and shaped to fit the hoof. The shoe is then nailed or, in some cases, glued to the hoof wall. The nails are carefully placed to avoid the sensitive inner structures of the hoof.

The type of shoe used depends on the horse's intended use and any specific hoof conditions. For example, horses used in show jumping might wear lighter shoes, while those used for heavy draft work might require heavier, more durable shoes. Therapeutic shoes are designed to address issues like laminitis or navicular disease. Regular shoeing is necessary as the horse's hoof continues to grow, typically every four to six weeks.