If you’re learning to trim your horse, there are a few tools I highly recommend that you have on-hand to 1) make trimming more efficient, and 2) give yourself the capability to trim all parts of the hoof, 3) provide your horse with the best all around trim you are capable of. Below you’ll find the basic supplies, both which I suggest to my clients learning how to trim and utilize myself. The most expensive item on this list is the hoof stand, but it is a one-time purchase that will last you a lifetime of trimming your own horses.

Heller Rasps

Anyone trimming their horse needs a good rasp. Truly, any rasp will probably do, but if you ask me my personal favorites have been Hellers. A single rasp will last for ages in humid and wet environments (be sure to protect them from rusting!), and they also perform very well on rock-hard hooves in dry environments. Heller rasps are available in standard sizes, draft sizes, and mini sizes.

Try the Heller Excel or Red Tang for regular horses or minis. For draft horses, you may want to check out the Heller Big Hoof rasp. And, if you want some extra comfort and leverage, get yourself a rasp handle as well.

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Half-Round Nippers

Half-round nippers are a must-have in my book. They are especially great for heels, bars and certain frog trimming needs. What isn’t necessary is buying an expensive farriery set when bonsai nippers are an incredible alternative. These 8” bonsai half rounds are easy to handle, easy on the wallet and are the ones I carry with me in my truck.

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Loop Knife

A loop knife is incredibly helpful in moderate to damp environments. It can still be useful in dry environments though the drier the environment and harder the hooves, the more challenging it will be to utilize and maintain the edges of loop knife. Loop knives can have the edges on the inside or the outside of the knife. Personally, I prefer the edges on the outside because it is easier for me to sharpen. If you do buy a loop knife, ensure you also have an appropriately sized knife sharpener to maintain the edges over time.

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Hoofjack Hoof Stand

I highly recommend that anyone trimming their own horse invest in a hoof stand. If your horse is capable of using it, it will not only help you save time but will also help your body and conserve your energy. I’ve used several stands and the Hoofjack stands are my favorite: they are durable, stable and don’t topple easily, include magnets for tools (or nails when removing shoes), and the stands are easy to adjust and swap out.

Use the standard size for regular sized horses and ponies. Use the miniature size for small ponies, minis, and even geriatric horses who prefer to hold their legs low during trims. Draft sized attachments are also available. There are other stands on the market that are a little cheaper, however if you’re starting to trim your own horse, consider this a worthy investment. Plus, this stand will pay for itself in 4 trims or less!

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Gloves

If you don’t feel like taking little chunks out of your knuckles on accident while rasping, I highly recommend getting a pair of gloves with grip. Some smooth gloves allow tools to slip in your hands so opt instead for gloves with a little texture to them. These pink gloves are bright, but are lightweight and breathable.

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