Farrier & Hoof Care

Farrier & Hoof Care Supplies for Horses

No hoof, no horse. Every farrier has heard it, and most horse owners have learned it the hard way. Valley Vet Supply's founders were practicing veterinarians in Marysville, Kansas, before launching this company in 1985, so we know a lot of lameness starts at the ground. This collection gathers the horse hoof care supplies that keep feet trimmed, clean, and protected between farrier visits. You'll find professional farrier tools here, plus thrush treatments small enough to live in your grooming tote. 

Farrier Tools and Thrush Treatments

Good hoof care takes two kinds of supplies: tools that trim and shape the foot, and treatments that keep bacteria and fungi in check between trims. The nippers below are made for farriers and experienced owners who trim their own horses. The thrush treatments are simple enough for anyone to use after picking out feet. 

• Diamond Farrier's Nippers: Professional quality 15 in nippers precision made from special alloy steel, with the length you need for maximum leverage and cutting ability.
• Hooflex Thrush Remedy: A 12 oz squeeze bottle with an applicator that reaches deep into the frog. The clear, non-staining formula won't sting or dry out the area, contains no formaldehyde, and also treats white line disease.
• Thrush Off for Horses: A non-caustic Well-Horse formula that's safe to use under pads, shoes, and hoof packing. Sold in 2 oz and 4 oz bottles.

Building a Hoof Care Routine

Daily Picking and Inspection

Pick feet daily, working heel to toe along the frog. Look for black, foul-smelling discharge, heat, cracks, or stones near the shoe. Catch thrush early and it stays a quick fix.

Trimming, Shoeing and Seasonal Moisture

Most horses do well on a 6 to 8 week trim or reset, though growth often slows in winter. Wet springs soften hooves and invite thrush. Dry summers bring cracks. Support growth with Hoof Builders, and protect tender feet with Boots & Wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should horses be trimmed or shod?

Many horses are trimmed or reset every 6 to 8 weeks. Fast-growing feet, young horses, and corrective shoeing may need shorter intervals, so set the schedule with your farrier. Barefoot horses on rough or rocky ground may also need more frequent touch-ups to keep the walls from chipping.

How do I treat thrush in my horse?

Clean the hoof thoroughly with a hoof pick and brush, then let it dry if you can. Apply a thrush treatment for horses like Thrush Off once to the affected area, then weekly to help keep it from coming back. Keep stalls clean and dry, since wet bedding gives thrush a head start. If the frog stays soft and smelly after a week or two of treatment, have your vet or farrier take a look.

What should be in a hoof care kit?

At minimum, a hoof pick with a brush, a thrush treatment, a hoof dressing, and a hoof boot or wrap for emergencies. If you trim your own horses, add nippers, a rasp, and a hoof knife. Keep a small flashlight in the kit too, since thrush and fine cracks are easy to miss in a dim barn aisle.