Every 4-8 weeks, a horse's hoofs need attention from a farrier. This may be as simple as a "trim" (lucky owner) or as involved as a full set of shoes with a custom fitting based on the horse's special physical needs (and that would be horse owner ME)
Among farriers and horse owners, there is controversy and passionate opinion as to whether horses need shoes at all, and many horses do not. But for other horses like Sizzle, shoes are a necessary evil and they help keep her sound and comfortable so I can ride often. Farriers tend to be opinionated, and their opinions vary a lot! So finding and keeping a good one is a big deal. My farrier Ken drove to Seattle this morning to shoe Sizzle. Her new stall is right inside this door, it is a cozy friendly barn and she is always happiest being close to the herd.
In human years, Sizzle is about 75. She looks terrific, but what living creature at that age doesn't have a few issues? Over the past few years I've learned she has arthritis (common) and a condition called "navicular" (also common in Quarterhorses) deep in her front hooves. Ken nails thick plastic pads under the front shoes to cushion her soles and prevent bruising of the sensitive areas. She also has calcified muscle on her back leg from an old injury, which gives her a shorter stride on one side. I've been told it is not painful and there is no cure, and the best therapy is regular exercise. This may be more information than you're interested in, but gives an idea of how much vets and farriers can tell us about our horses these days.
People often ask me how long horses live, and just like humans it varies greatly. When I was growing up, 15 or 20 was old for a horse, but now with good care many of them live useful lives into their 30's. To their doting owners they just become more dear with age. Sizzle has had an active life but not excessively hard, except for a short stint as a barrel racer. (Her previous owner told me she has a lifetime earning of about $78 for her barrel racing career!)
She exercises several times a week, does not abuse drugs, and eats really well too. This seems to be a good recipe for a long life!
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