The Hoofcare Companion
The Hoofcare Companion is your perfect podcast to learn all about the hoof of the horse. Bitesized episodes of in depth knowledge backed up with peer reviewed science. Take your expertise to the next level with The Hoofcare Companion
Episode 23 - Hoof Abscesses
Hoof abscesses are one of the most common causes of sudden lameness in horses, but how much do you really understand about their causes, diagnosis and treatment?
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the pathology of hoof abscesses, examining how bacteria enter the foot, the predisposing factors involved and why an apparently minor lesion can cause severe pain.
We discuss the clinical signs to recognise, including increased digital pulses, hoof sensitivity and sudden-onset lameness, alongside the importance of distinguishing an abscess from solar bruising, laminitis, fractures and other serious conditions.
...
Episode 22 - White Line Disease and Seedy Toe
White Line Disease & Seedy Toe in the Horse
What is the difference between white line disease and seedy toe? Are they actually the same condition and is white line disease really just a fungal infection?
In this episode, we look beyond the visible cavity to explore what is happening inside the hoof and why understanding the underlying mechanics is essential for successful treatment.
We cover:
• White line disease vs seedy toe
• Causes and contributing factors
• Clinical signs and diagnosis
• When radiographs are important
• Debridement and treatment<...
Episode 21 - Introducing The Farrier's Mindset Audiobook
In this special preview, Marc Jerram introduces The Farrier’s Mindset, a 6 hour audiobook created primarily to help apprentice farriers prepare for written and professional discussion examinations.
Rather than simply providing more information to memorise, the audiobook focuses on how to think with the knowledge you already have.
Farriery examinations require more than recalling facts. You need to understand what a question is asking, identify the relevant knowledge, apply it to the situation and explain the reasoning behind your answer. The Farrier’s Mindset takes you through this process step by step.
Th...
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Pastern Joint
The Equine Pastern: Anatomy & Function
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the equine pastern and examine why this relatively small region of the limb is so important to soundness, movement and hoofcare.
We look at the proximal and middle phalanges, the pastern joint and its relationship with the coffin joint. The episode also explores the important soft tissue structures surrounding the pastern, including the joint capsule, collateral ligaments, superficial digital flexor tendon and deep digital flexor tendon.
Understanding how these structures...
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Fetlock Joint
The Equine Fetlock Joint | The Hoofcare Companion
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of one of the horse's most important distal limb joints — the fetlock.
We examine the bones that form the fetlock, including the distal metacarpus/metatarsus, proximal phalanx and proximal sesamoid bones, before looking at the joint capsule and the structures that provide stability.
The episode takes a closer look at the soft tissues of the fetlock, including the suspensory ligament, superficial and deep digital flexor tendons, collateral ligaments and distal sesamoidean li...
🇵🇹 Sessões de conhecimento de 5 minutos - A articulação do jarrete
A Articulação do Artelho do Cavalo | O Companheiro de Cuidados com os Cascos
Neste episódio do Companheiro de Cuidados com os Cascos, exploramos a anatomia e a função de uma das articulações distais mais importantes do cavalo — o artelho.
Examinamos os ossos que formam o artelho, incluindo o metacarpo/metatarso distal, a falange proximal e os ossos sesamóides proximais, antes de olhar para a cápsula articular e as estruturas que fornecem estabilidade.
O episódio analisa mais de perto os tecidos moles do artelho, incluindo o ligamento suspensor, o...
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Carpus
The Hoofcare Companion – The Equine Carpus
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the equine carpus (knee). You'll learn about the bones, joints and supporting soft tissues that make up the carpus, how it contributes to shock absorption and locomotion, and why it is one of the most commonly injured regions of the equine forelimb.
Designed for farriery apprentices, qualified farriers, veterinary surgeons, equine veterinary nurses, equine science students and horse owners, this episode explains complex anatomy in a clear and structured fo...
🇩🇪 Die 5-minütigen Wissens-Sessions - Das Carpus
Der Hoofcare Companion – Das Pferdegelenk
In dieser Folge von Der Hoofcare Companion erkunden wir die Anatomie und Funktion des Pferdegelenks (Knie). Du erfährst alles über die Knochen, Gelenke und unterstützenden Weichteile des Gelenks, wie es zur Stoßdämpfung und Bewegung beiträgt und warum es eine der am häufigsten verletzten Regionen des Pferdefrontbeins ist.
Gedacht für Hufschmiedelehrlinge, ausgebildete Hufschmiede, Tierärzte, Pferdepfleger, Studenten der Pferdewissenschaften und Pferdebesitzer, erklärt diese Folge komplexe Anatomie auf eine klare und strukturierte Weise.
Um inklusives Lernen zu unterstützen, enthält jede Folge Lernziel...
Las sesiones de conocimiento de 5 minutos - Tendones extensores de las extremidades delanteras y traseras
En este episodio de El Compañero del Cuidado de Casco, exploramos la anatomía y función de los tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras de los caballos. Entender estas estructuras importantes es esencial para herradores, profesionales veterinarios y estudiantes de ciencia equina, ya que juegan un papel clave en la locomoción normal, la estabilidad de las extremidades y el diagnóstico de cojera. Hablaremos de los principales tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras, incluyendo su origen, recorrido, inserción y función, antes de examinar su importancia clínica y cómo las lesio...
Extensor Tendons - The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the extensor tendons of the equine forelimb and hind limb. Understanding these important structures is essential for farriers, veterinary professionals and equine science students, as they play a key role in normal locomotion, limb stability and the diagnosis of lameness.
We'll discuss the principal extensor tendons of both the forelimb and hind limb, including their origin, route, insertion and function, before examining their clinical significance and how injuries can affect movement and performance. You'll also discover why...
Episode 20 - Navicular Syndrome
The Final Episode in the Series
In the final episode of this educational farriery series, Marc Jerram takes a deep dive into one of the most discussed and challenging causes of chronic forelimb lameness in the horse, navicular syndrome.
This episode explores the modern understanding of navicular syndrome and explains why it is no longer viewed as a disease of the navicular bone alone, but rather as a complex condition involving the entire navicular apparatus including the deep digital flexor tendon, navicular bursa, ligaments and surrounding soft tissues within the foot.
Marc breaks...
Episode 19 - The Frog and its associated pathologies
In this episode, we explore one of the most important yet often overlooked structures in the equine hoof — the frog.
From its role in shock absorption and circulation to its importance as a diagnostic reference point in farriery, this episode breaks down everything you need to know in a clear and practical way.
We also explore common frog pathologies, how they develop, and most importantly how to treat and prevent them effectively in real-world farriery practice.
📚 What You’ll Learn
The anatomy and structure of the frog The function of the frog in movemen...Episode 18 - The Use of Hoof Boots in Modern Farriery Practice
Hoof boots are transforming modern farriery—but are you using them correctly?
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram breaks down everything you need to know about hoof boots, from their historical origins to their role in performance, barefoot management, and rehabilitation.
Whether you're a farrier, vet, or horse owner, this episode will help you understand when, why, and how to use hoof boots effectively—and avoid the common mistakes that lead to poor outcomes.
🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
The evolution of hoof protection from ancient me...Episode 17- Interference injuries involving the hoof
Interference injuries are more than just knocks and cuts, they’re often a sign of deeper biomechanical inefficiencies within the horse. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes a detailed look at the causes, types, and farriery strategies used to manage interference.
From forging and overreach to brushing and toe drag, we break down how and why these injuries occur, and most importantly, how farriers can assess and address them through effective trimming and shoeing techniques.
Whether you're a practicing farrier, apprentice, or equine professional, this episode provides practical insights into improving mo...
Episode 16 - Hoofcare for the Dressage Horse
In this episode, we explore the precision of shoeing the dressage horse, from Intro level through to Grand Prix.
Learn how different movements influence hoof loading, how to assess the horse both statically and dynamically, and how shoeing strategies adapt to surfaces, conformation, and performance demands.
We cover trimming principles, shoe selection, barefoot management, and the importance of working alongside vets and physiotherapists to support long-term soundness.
A practical, evidence-based guide for farriers working with the modern dressage athlete.
Support the show
To order your hardback copy of The...
Episode 15 - Cushings Disease - A Complete Overview
Cushings disease, correctly termed pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, is one of the most important endocrine disorders affecting the ageing horse and a leading underlying cause of laminitis and chronic hoof pathology.
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram delivers a clear, farriery focused overview of Cushings disease, explaining how pituitary dysfunction leads to widespread metabolic, vascular, and immune changes that often manifest first within the hoof.
The episode explores thorough assessment of the Cushings affected horse, common and subtle clinical signs, laminitis risk, and the farrier’s role in...
Episode 14 - The Coronary band, Coronitis and Coronary Band Dystrophy
In this episode, we take an in depth look at one of the most critical yet often underestimated structures of the equine hoof: the coronary band. This episode is essential listening for farriers, veterinarians, and serious hoof care professionals who want a deeper understanding of how coronary band health directly influences hoof wall quality, growth, and long term soundness.
We begin by exploring the normal anatomy and function of the coronary band, explaining its role as the primary germinal tissue responsible for producing the hoof wall. You will learn how the epidermal and...
Episode 13 - Sidebone
Sidebone is one of the most commonly encountered structural changes within the equine foot, particularly in heavier horses and those exposed to repetitive concussive forces. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take an in depth look at sidebone from a farriery perspective, exploring not only what it is, but why it develops, how it alters hoof biomechanics and how informed trimming and shoeing decisions can significantly influence long term comfort and soundness.
This episode moves beyond sidebone as a simple radiographic finding and places it firmly within the wider context of hoof balance, conformation, workload...
Episode 12 - Suspensory Ligaments
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at the suspensory ligaments of the lower limb, exploring teir anatomy, function, common injury patterns, and most importantly the farriery principles that influence both injury risk and rehabilitation.
Suspensory and navicular-related injuries remain one of the most common causes of chronic lameness and loss of performance across sport and leisure horses. This episode is designed to give farriers a clear working understanding of how hoof balance, trimming and shoeing decisions directly affect these structures, and how to work...
Episode 11 - Medio-Lateral balance of the hoof
Medio-lateral balance is one of the most influential and most misunderstood principles in farriery. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore what medio-lateral balance really means, why visual symmetry can be misleading, and how poor balance contributes to long term lameness and pathology.
Marc explores how farriers should assess medio-lateral balance both statically and dynamically, explains how conformation dictates loading patterns, and discusses why trimming and shoeing decisions must always respect the horse’s functional anatomy. From long-axis assessment of the forelimb and hindlimb to the role of radiography in modern farriery, this episode provides pr...
Episode 10 - Hoof Wall Cracks
Hoof wall cracks are one of the most commonly encountered yet frequently misunderstood conditions in equine hoof care. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at hoof wall cracks, breaking down the different types, why they occur, how they affect soundness, and how farriers and veterinarians can work together to manage them effectively.
From superficial cosmetic defects to painful, performance-limiting cracks, this episode explains how hoof anatomy, biomechanics, trimming, shoeing, environment, and nutrition all play a role. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to assess cracks both statically and...
Christmas Special - How to shoe a racehorse
In this Christmas Special of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram reflects on the demands of elite racehorse farriery while thanking listeners for their incredible support throughout 2025. This episode takes a deep dive into the specialised art and science of shoeing the Thoroughbred racehorse — an athlete operating at the absolute limits of biomechanical performance.
From breed-specific hoof challenges to trimming protocols, shoe selection, and the key differences between flat and National Hunt racing, this episode brings together practical farriery insight with evidence-based understanding. Whether you’re working on the track, in training yards, or managing perf...
Episode 8 - Hoof Pastern Axis
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take a look into one of the most fundamental yet often misunderstood concepts in farriery and hoof care: the hoof pastern axis.
Using anatomy, biomechanics, and real world farriery principles, this episode explains what a normal hoof pastern axis looks like, why it matters for soundness and performance, and how broken back and broken forward alignments affect the horse over time. We explore how trimming and shoeing choices influence internal structures, why visual assessment alone can be misleading, and how radiographs have transformed modern hoof care decision making.
<...Episode 7 - Angular limb deformities in foals
In this episode, we explore Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs) in foals—one of the most important developmental challenges faced by breeders, farriers, and equine veterinarians. These early-life limb deviations can influence a horse’s long-term soundness, athletic potential, and overall welfare. This conversation unpacks what ALDs are, how they develop, how to diagnose them, and the full spectrum of modern treatment options.
• What Are Angular Limb Deformities?
Definitions of valgus and varus deviationsCommonly affected joints: carpus, fetlock, tarsusWhy early identification is crucial• The Anatomy Behind ALDs
The role of growt...Episode 6 - The role of macrominerals in hoof health
In this episode, we explore how the major dietary macrominerals calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and sulphur shape the health of the equine hoof from the inside out. We break down the biological roles of each mineral, their influence on keratin formation, circulation, immune function, and inflammation control, and how imbalances can lead to structural hoof defects or systemic health issues.
What You’ll Learn:
How calcium supports keratinisation and immune cell signallingWhy the calcium–phosphorus ratio is crucial for healthy hoof developmentThe role of magnesium in keratin production, stress regulation, and inflammation cont...Episode 5 - Pedal Bone Fractures
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram explores one of the most significant yet often misunderstood hoof injuries — pedal bone fractures. Joined by expert insights from veterinary and farriery perspectives, Marc breaks down how these fractures occur, how they’re classified, and the latest approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the vital role of radiography, therapeutic shoeing, and owner management during recovery, as well as how farriers and vets can work together to support long term soundness.
Wheth...
🇪🇸 Episodio 5 - Fracturas del hueso del pedal
En este episodio de The Hoofcare Companion, el presentador Marc Jerram analiza una de las lesiones del casco más importantes pero a menudo mal comprendidas: las fracturas del hueso pedial. Con la participación de expertos en veterinaria y herrería, Marc explica cómo se producen estas fracturas, cómo se clasifican y cuáles son los métodos más recientes para su diagnóstico, tratamiento y rehabilitación.
Los oyentes descubrirán la importancia de la radiografía, el herraje terapéutico y la gestión del propietar...
🇮🇹 Episodio 5 - Fratture dell'osso del piede
In questo episodio di The Hoofcare Companion, il conduttore Marc Jerram approfondisce uno degli infortuni più importanti ma spesso fraintesi del piede equino: le fratture dell’osso pedale. Con il contributo di esperti in veterinaria e mascalcia, Marc spiega come si verificano queste fratture, la loro classificazione e i più recenti metodi di diagnosi, trattamento e riabilitazione.
Gli ascoltatori scopriranno l’importanza della radiografia, della ferratura terapeutica e della gestione del proprietario durante la guarigione, oltre al ruolo cruciale della collaborazione tra veterinari e maniscalchi.
Un episodio ricco d...
🇪🇸 Episodio 4 - Artritis de la articulación del casco
En este episodio abordamos la artritis de la articulación del casco, una causa frecuente y compleja de cojera en los caballos. Analizamos cómo esta enfermedad degenerativa afecta el rendimiento y cómo herramientas diagnósticas como los bloqueos nerviosos, las radiografías y la imagen avanzada ayudan a planificar tratamientos precisos de herraje y veterinaria. También exploramos las estrategias de recorte y herraje para aliviar el estrés articular, las terapias de apoyo como las inyecciones intraarticulares y los biológicos, y los consejos de manejo diario relacionados con el ejercicio, el entorno y la nutrición. Un epis...
🇮🇹 Episodio 4 - Artrite dell’articolazione del piede
In questo episodio analizziamo l’artrite dell’articolazione del piede—una delle principali cause di zoppia nei cavalli. Scopri come questa condizione degenerativa influisce sulle prestazioni e come strumenti diagnostici come i blocchi nervosi, le radiografie e le immagini avanzate possano guidare interventi precisi di mascalcia e terapia veterinaria. Parliamo delle tecniche di pareggio e ferratura per ridurre lo stress articolare, dei trattamenti di supporto come le infiltrazioni e le terapie biologiche, e della gestione quotidiana da parte del proprietario attraverso esercizio, ambiente e alimentazione. Un episodio imperdibile per maniscalchi, veterinari e proprietari di cavalli.
Support the show
...Episode 4 - Coffin Joint Arthritis
In this episode, we explore coffin joint arthritis, a common yet complex cause of lameness in horses. Discover how this degenerative joint condition affects performance, and how diagnostic tools like nerve blocks, radiographs, and advanced imaging guide precise farriery and veterinary treatment. We discuss trimming and shoeing strategies to relieve joint stress, supportive therapies such as joint injections and biologics, and practical owner management tips including exercise, environment, and nutrition. A must-listen for farriers, vets, and horse owners aiming to keep horses comfortable and sound.
Support the show
To order your hardback copy of The Hoo...
Episode 3 - The use of Radiography to assess foot balance
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we dive into the critical role of radiography in assessing equine foot balance. Traditionally, farriers and veterinarians relied on visual and tactile assessment to guide trimming and shoeing, but modern diagnostic imaging has transformed hoof care.
Join host Marc Jerram as we explore how radiographs provide deeper insights into hoof alignment, pastern axis, palmar angles, sole depth, and mediolateral balance. We discuss how these measurements influence farriery decisions, the collaboration between vets and farriers, and how radiographic assessment can improve both preventative and therapeutic hoof care.<...
🇮🇹 Episodio 3 - L'uso della radiografia per valutare l'equilibrio dello zoccolo
In questo episodio di The Hoofcare Companion, esploriamo il ruolo cruciale della radiografia nella valutazione dell’equilibrio del piede equino. Tradizionalmente, maniscalchi e veterinari si affidavano alla valutazione visiva e tattile per orientare la paratura e la ferratura, ma l’imaging diagnostico moderno ha trasformato la cura del piede.
Unisciti all’host Marc Jerram mentre esploriamo come le radiografie forniscano approfondimenti sull’allineamento del piede, sull’asse del garretto, sugli angoli palmari, sulla profondità della suola e sull’equilibrio medio-laterale. Discutiamo di come queste misurazioni influenzino le decisioni del maniscalco, della collaborazione tra veterinari e maniscalchi e di come la val...
🇪🇸 Episodio 3 - El uso de la radiografía para evaluar el equilibrio del casco
En este episodio de El Compañero del Cuidado del Casco, exploramos el papel crítico de la radiografía en la evaluación del equilibrio del casco equino. Tradicionalmente, herradores y veterinarios confiaban en la evaluación visual y táctil para guiar el recorte y el calzado, pero la imagenología diagnóstica moderna ha transformado el cuidado del casco.Únete al anfitrión Marc Jerram mientras exploramos cómo las radiografías brindan una visión más profunda de la alineación del casco, el eje del menudillo, los ángulos palmares, la profundidad de la suela y el equil...
Episode 2 - The Use of Nerve Blocks in Horses to Identify Lameness
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram explores one of the most valuable tools in equine veterinary diagnostics: nerve blocks. From the basics of how they work to their role in pinpointing the source of lameness, this episode takes you step by step through the science, techniques, and practical applications of perineural anaesthesia.
We discuss the different types of nerve blocks from palmar digital to high four-point and highlight how they guide accurate diagnosis, reduce unnecessary imaging, and improve treatment outcomes. Alongside technique and pharmacology, we cover recent innovations, case studies, and...
🇮🇹 Episodio 2 L’uso dei blocchi nervosi nel cavallo per identificare la zoppia
In questo episodio di The Hoofcare Companion, il conduttore Marc Jerram esplora uno degli strumenti più preziosi nella diagnostica veterinaria equina: i blocchi nervosi. Dalle basi del loro funzionamento al loro ruolo nell’individuare la fonte della zoppia, l’episodio ti guida passo dopo passo attraverso la scienza, le tecniche e le applicazioni pratiche dell’anestesia perineurale.
Parliamo dei diversi tipi di blocchi nervosi — dal digitale palmare al “four-point” alto — e mettiamo in evidenza come guidino diagnosi più accurate, riducano l’uso di esami costosi e migliorino i risultati terapeutici. Oltre alla tecnica e alla farmacologia, affr...
🇪🇸 Episodio 2 - El uso de los bloqueos nerviosos en caballos para identificar la cojera
En este episodio de The Hoofcare Companion, el presentador Marc Jerram explora una de las herramientas más valiosas en la práctica veterinaria equina: los bloqueos nerviosos. Desde los fundamentos de cómo funcionan hasta su papel en localizar la fuente de la cojera, este episodio te guía paso a paso a través de la ciencia, las técnicas y las aplicaciones prácticas de la anestesia perineural.
Hablamos de los diferentes tipos de bloqueos nerviosos —desde el digital palmar hasta el “four-point” alto— y destacamos cómo permiten diagnósticos más precisos, reduce...
Episode 1 - The Deep Digital Flexor Tendon
The Deep Digital Flexor Tendon (DDFT) is one of the most critical and most injury prone structures in the equine limb. In this episode, we break down its anatomy, function, and the vital role of the subcarpal check ligament.
We explore how to recognise DDFT injuries, from subtle gait changes to advanced imaging like MRI, and reveal the latest diagnostic innovations. You’ll hear how targeted farriery such as correcting hoof-pastern axis, managing palmar angles, and using supportive shoes can make or break recovery. We also discuss surgical options and evidence based rehab strategies. Perfect for...
Episodio 1 - il profondo tendine flessore digitale (ITA) 🇮🇹
Il Tendine Flessore Digitale Profondo (DDFT) è una delle strutture più critiche e più soggette a infortuni nell'arto equino. In questo episodio, analizziano la sua anatomia, funzione e il ruolo vitale del legamento di controllo subcarpale.Esploriamo come riconoscere gli infortuni del DDFT, da lievi cambiamenti di andatura a immagini avanzate come la risonanza magnetica, e riveliamo le ultime innovazioni diagnostiche. Sentirete come un ferro mirato, come la correzione dell'asse dello zoccolo e del garretto, la gestione degli angoli palmari e l'uso di scarpe di supporto, possa influenzare in modo significativo il recupero. Discutiamo anche delle opzioni chirurgiche e delle str...
Episodio 1 - El Tendón Flexor Digital Profundo (ESP) 🇪🇸
El Tendón Flexor Digital Profundo (DDFT) es una de las estructuras más críticas y propensas a lesiones en la extremidad equina. En este episodio, desglosamos su anatomía, función y el papel vital del ligamento de control subcarpal. Exploramos cómo reconocer las lesiones del DDFT, desde cambios sutiles en la marcha hasta imágenes avanzadas como la resonancia magnética, y revelamos las últimas innovaciones diagnósticas. Escucharás cómo la herrería dirigida, como la corrección del eje del casco y el metacarpo, la gestión de los ángulos palmares y el uso de zapato...
