I trim in regard to the 30 degree hairline, which is all I use. The hairline tells no lie, because if you left a little wall in areas it tattle’s on you.
Above picture are Paco’s fronts. He is a 3 year old BLM gelding burro from McGee Mountain, Nevada.
Paco in Aug. 2007. Notice he is pigeon toed?
Paco in Aug. 2008 Pigeon toes about gone!
A well trim hoof tells no lie. Adding a break over and beveling to the hoof walls reduces or complete eliminates chips, or cracks
30 degree hairline is what you really just need.
Check out Phil’s site: he added more about his style of trimming: http://www.softouchnaturalhorsecare.com/trimming.html
Understanding basic hoof care is a big part of ownership in horses, donkeys and mules. So many people put their complete faith in their trimmers without realizing: some trimmers have not a clue!
I am blessed that I have a trimmer that shares his knowledge and has encourage me to start my own hoof care business. Phil Morarre been a wonderful mentor to me and started me on my journey to help others out, to getting a person who cares about their animals. I been through the nightmare of farriers, I had my animals hit with rasps, mishandled, etc. When I first met Phil I was very skeptical about Abrasive trimming. Then after the 2nd visit I was hooked!
From here on out I will try to post my findings and share what I know, to people. I do have a small client base which includes Birdsong and Glen. I started to trim their donkeys In August 2008. She has 4 wonderful burros, which she has done a lot with. The difference between me and the normal farriers is: I leave home work. That way the client has a better understanding and helps them also. Also I deal with BLM former wild horses and burros, where many will not or charge a pretty penny for them.
I am specializing in donkeys BUT welcome all. A good trim like Phil says is a beautiful sight to see. To me a good trim is freedom, and when a good trim happens it stimulates the hoof to grow! That is how I know my trimmings are good, when I return and see hoof growth. I also believe in every animal is different and allow them to tell me what they need. I do not trim all animals the same, because all hooves are not. It like saying everyone in your household wears the same shoe….which isn’t true!
A good trimmer will help you through your journey and share with you. They will not be blind, nor ignore you.