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The proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act could reshape how equine hoof care is defined and regulated across the UK. While Defra’s White Paper identifies farriers and barefoot trimmers, it does not clearly recognise equine podiatrists who use non-metal additive orthoses such as therapeutic boots, pads and composite applications. This article explores how the proposed activity-based regulatory framework could address that gap.

Join me, Beccy Smith, in our new Q and A series where we explore transitioning your horse to barefoot successfully through a welfare and evidence-based lens and answer your hoof care questions live.

Red flags to avoid, welfare-first standards to look for, and how Holistic Equine supports informed horse owners Choosing a hoof care provider is an important welfare decision. Your horse’s feet influence comfort, movement, posture, performance, and quality of life, so it is reasonable to expect more than a quick trim or a confident opinion. This is where social licence to operate matters. In equine hoof care, it means earning and retaining the confidence of horse owners and t

Join me, Beccy Smith, in this recording of a live webinar plus Q & A session where I ask "should we trim to the hard sole plane?" and share objective evidence in an attempt to bring clarity to trimming techniques currently under scrutiny.

Join Beccy Smith, and fellow compassionate equestrian and educator Dr Emma-louise Emerson from The Equican Academy during our 1 hour 47 minute interview with a presentation on our favourite topic - welfare-focused, evidence-based approach to hoof care!

Explore compassionate equestrianism with Dr. James Cooling and discover ethical bit and bridle fit for welfare and balance.