From Horseshoes to Glue-On Shoes

Quickstep is a 13-year-old Paso Fino who came to me at 11 months old. Initially, I had him shod traditionally with 4 horseshoes. However, he found the nailing very unpleasant from the start and it was always very stressful for everyone involved. At 4 years old, he moved to an active stable where horseshoes on the hind hooves were not allowed, so we had to switch to synthetic shoeing. Luckily, there was a hoof trimmer at our stable who came up with the idea of gluing the shoes.

I am a hoof trimmer myself and have tried various gluing systems – for me, the Goodsmith tabs are the most pleasant to work with.

Quickstep walks very well with the glued synthetic shoes and only very rarely loses one anymore. We often go on trail rides, carriage driving and are active in Working Equitation.

Verdict: After initial teething problems, I am now absolutely convinced of gluing, and for me a traditionally nailed horseshoe is no longer an option.
After 7 years of gluing, I can also say that the instant adhesive does not harm the hoof.