Podcast · Tech & Science

The Hoofcare Companion

by Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier · English · Tech & Science

The Hoofcare Companion is your perfect podcast to learn all about the hoof of the horse. Bitesized episodes of in depth knowledge backed up with peer reviewed science. Take your expertise to the next level with The Hoofcare Companion

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 16 min
Latest: 29 Sep 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

29 Sep 2026 · 29 min

Episode 22 - White Line Disease and Seedy Toe

White Line Disease & Seedy Toe in the Horse What is the difference between white line disease and seedy toe? Are they actually the same condition and is white line disease really just a fungal infection? In this episode, we look beyond the visible cavity to explore what is happening inside the hoof and why understanding the underlying mechanics is essential for successful treatment. We cover: • White line disease vs seedy toe • Causes and contributing factors • Clinical signs and diagnosi...

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S2 · E4 · 23 Sep 2026 · 24 min
Episode 21 - Introducing The Farrier's Mindset Audiobook
In this special preview, Marc Jerram introduces The Farrier’s Mindset, a 6 hour audiobook created primarily to help apprentice farriers prepare for written and professional discussion examinations. Rather than simply providing more information to memorise, the audiobook focuses on how to think with the knowledge you already have. Farriery examinations require more than recalling facts. You need to understand what a question is asking, identify the relevant knowledge, apply it to the situation...
S2 · E4 · 21 Aug 2026 · 5 min
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Pastern Joint
The Equine Pastern: Anatomy & FunctionIn this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the equine pastern and examine why this relatively small region of the limb is so important to soundness, movement and hoofcare. We look at the proximal and middle phalanges, the pastern joint and its relationship with the coffin joint. The episode also explores the important soft tissue structures surrounding the pastern, including the joint capsule, collateral ligament...
S2 · E3 · 14 Aug 2026 · 6 min
🇵🇹 Sessões de conhecimento de 5 minutos - A articulação do jarrete
A Articulação do Artelho do Cavalo | O Companheiro de Cuidados com os Cascos Neste episódio do Companheiro de Cuidados com os Cascos, exploramos a anatomia e a função de uma das articulações distais mais importantes do cavalo — o artelho. Examinamos os ossos que formam o artelho, incluindo o metacarpo/metatarso distal, a falange proximal e os ossos sesamóides proximais, antes de olhar para a cápsula articular e as estruturas que fornecem estabilidade. O episódio analisa mais de perto os te...
S2 · E3 · 14 Aug 2026 · 6 min
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Fetlock Joint
The Equine Fetlock Joint | The Hoofcare Companion In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of one of the horse's most important distal limb joints — the fetlock. We examine the bones that form the fetlock, including the distal metacarpus/metatarsus, proximal phalanx and proximal sesamoid bones, before looking at the joint capsule and the structures that provide stability. The episode takes a closer look at the soft tissues of the fetlock, including the su...
S2 · E2 · 7 Aug 2026 · 7 min
🇩🇪 Die 5-minütigen Wissens-Sessions - Das Carpus
Der Hoofcare Companion – Das Pferdegelenk In dieser Folge von Der Hoofcare Companion erkunden wir die Anatomie und Funktion des Pferdegelenks (Knie). Du erfährst alles über die Knochen, Gelenke und unterstützenden Weichteile des Gelenks, wie es zur Stoßdämpfung und Bewegung beiträgt und warum es eine der am häufigsten verletzten Regionen des Pferdefrontbeins ist. Gedacht für Hufschmiedelehrlinge, ausgebildete Hufschmiede, Tierärzte, Pferdepfleger, Studenten der Pferdewissenschaften und Pfer...
S2 · E2 · 7 Aug 2026 · 7 min
The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions - The Carpus
The Hoofcare Companion – The Equine Carpus In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the equine carpus (knee). You'll learn about the bones, joints and supporting soft tissues that make up the carpus, how it contributes to shock absorption and locomotion, and why it is one of the most commonly injured regions of the equine forelimb. Designed for farriery apprentices, qualified farriers, veterinary surgeons, equine veterinary nurses, equine science stude...
S2 · E1 · 31 Jul 2026 · 6 min
Las sesiones de conocimiento de 5 minutos - Tendones extensores de las extremidades delanteras y traseras
En este episodio de El Compañero del Cuidado de Casco, exploramos la anatomía y función de los tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras de los caballos. Entender estas estructuras importantes es esencial para herradores, profesionales veterinarios y estudiantes de ciencia equina, ya que juegan un papel clave en la locomoción normal, la estabilidad de las extremidades y el diagnóstico de cojera. Hablaremos de los principales tendones extensores de las patas delanteras y traseras,...
S2 · E1 · 31 Jul 2026 · 6 min
Extensor Tendons - The 5 minute Knowledge Sessions
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the anatomy and function of the extensor tendons of the equine forelimb and hind limb. Understanding these important structures is essential for farriers, veterinary professionals and equine science students, as they play a key role in normal locomotion, limb stability and the diagnosis of lameness. We'll discuss the principal extensor tendons of both the forelimb and hind limb, including their origin, route, insertion and function, before...
S1 · E20 · 19 May 2026 · 32 min
Episode 20 - Navicular Syndrome
The Final Episode in the Series In the final episode of this educational farriery series, Marc Jerram takes a deep dive into one of the most discussed and challenging causes of chronic forelimb lameness in the horse, navicular syndrome. This episode explores the modern understanding of navicular syndrome and explains why it is no longer viewed as a disease of the navicular bone alone, but rather as a complex condition involving the entire navicular apparatus including the deep digital flexor ...
S1 · E19 · 5 May 2026 · 24 min
Episode 19 - The Frog and its associated pathologies
In this episode, we explore one of the most important yet often overlooked structures in the equine hoof — the frog. From its role in shock absorption and circulation to its importance as a diagnostic reference point in farriery, this episode breaks down everything you need to know in a clear and practical way. We also explore common frog pathologies, how they develop, and most importantly how to treat and prevent them effectively in real-world farriery practice. 📚 What You’ll Learn The...
S1 · E18 · 21 Apr 2026 · 22 min
Episode 18 - The Use of Hoof Boots in Modern Farriery Practice
Hoof boots are transforming modern farriery—but are you using them correctly? In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram breaks down everything you need to know about hoof boots, from their historical origins to their role in performance, barefoot management, and rehabilitation. Whether you're a farrier, vet, or horse owner, this episode will help you understand when, why, and how to use hoof boots effectively—and avoid the common mistakes that lead to poor outcomes. 🔍 In Thi...
S1 · E17 · 7 Apr 2026 · 26 min
Episode 17- Interference injuries involving the hoof
Interference injuries are more than just knocks and cuts, they’re often a sign of deeper biomechanical inefficiencies within the horse. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes a detailed look at the causes, types, and farriery strategies used to manage interference. From forging and overreach to brushing and toe drag, we break down how and why these injuries occur, and most importantly, how farriers can assess and address them through effective trimming and shoeing techni...
S1 · E16 · 25 Mar 2026 · 19 min
Episode 16 - Hoofcare for the Dressage Horse
In this episode, we explore the precision of shoeing the dressage horse, from Intro level through to Grand Prix. Learn how different movements influence hoof loading, how to assess the horse both statically and dynamically, and how shoeing strategies adapt to surfaces, conformation, and performance demands. We cover trimming principles, shoe selection, barefoot management, and the importance of working alongside vets and physiotherapists to support long-term soundness. A practical, evidence-b...
S1 · E15 · 11 Mar 2026 · 24 min
Episode 15 - Cushings Disease - A Complete Overview
Cushings disease, correctly termed pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, is one of the most important endocrine disorders affecting the ageing horse and a leading underlying cause of laminitis and chronic hoof pathology. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram delivers a clear, farriery focused overview of Cushings disease, explaining how pituitary dysfunction leads to widespread metabolic, vascular, and immune changes that often manifest first within the hoof. The episod...
S1 · E14 · 25 Feb 2026 · 25 min
Episode 14 - The Coronary band, Coronitis and Coronary Band Dystrophy
In this episode, we take an in depth look at one of the most critical yet often underestimated structures of the equine hoof: the coronary band. This episode is essential listening for farriers, veterinarians, and serious hoof care professionals who want a deeper understanding of how coronary band health directly influences hoof wall quality, growth, and long term soundness. We begin by exploring the normal anatomy and function of the coronary band, explaining its role as the primary germinal...
S1 · E13 · 11 Feb 2026 · 18 min
Episode 13 - Sidebone
Sidebone is one of the most commonly encountered structural changes within the equine foot, particularly in heavier horses and those exposed to repetitive concussive forces. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take an in depth look at sidebone from a farriery perspective, exploring not only what it is, but why it develops, how it alters hoof biomechanics and how informed trimming and shoeing decisions can significantly influence long term comfort and soundness. This episode moves be...
S1 · E12 · 28 Jan 2026 · 17 min
Episode 12 - Suspensory Ligaments
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at the suspensory ligaments of the lower limb, exploring teir anatomy, function, common injury patterns, and most importantly the farriery principles that influence both injury risk and rehabilitation. Suspensory and navicular-related injuries remain one of the most common causes of chronic lameness and loss of performance across sport and leisure horses. This episode is designed to give farriers a clear working und...
S1 · E11 · 14 Jan 2026 · 24 min
Episode 11 - Medio-Lateral balance of the hoof
Medio-lateral balance is one of the most influential and most misunderstood principles in farriery. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore what medio-lateral balance really means, why visual symmetry can be misleading, and how poor balance contributes to long term lameness and pathology. Marc explores how farriers should assess medio-lateral balance both statically and dynamically, explains how conformation dictates loading patterns, and discusses why trimming and shoeing decis...
S1 · E10 · 31 Dec 2025 · 16 min
Episode 10 - Hoof Wall Cracks
Hoof wall cracks are one of the most commonly encountered yet frequently misunderstood conditions in equine hoof care. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at hoof wall cracks, breaking down the different types, why they occur, how they affect soundness, and how farriers and veterinarians can work together to manage them effectively. From superficial cosmetic defects to painful, performance-limiting cracks, this episode explains how hoof anatomy, biome...
S1 · E9 · 25 Dec 2025 · 15 min
Christmas Special - How to shoe a racehorse
In this Christmas Special of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram reflects on the demands of elite racehorse farriery while thanking listeners for their incredible support throughout 2025. This episode takes a deep dive into the specialised art and science of shoeing the Thoroughbred racehorse — an athlete operating at the absolute limits of biomechanical performance. From breed-specific hoof challenges to trimming protocols, shoe selection, and the key differences between flat and Nation...
S1 · E8 · 14 Dec 2025 · 18 min
Episode 8 - Hoof Pastern Axis
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take a look into one of the most fundamental yet often misunderstood concepts in farriery and hoof care: the hoof pastern axis. Using anatomy, biomechanics, and real world farriery principles, this episode explains what a normal hoof pastern axis looks like, why it matters for soundness and performance, and how broken back and broken forward alignments affect the horse over time. We explore how trimming and shoeing choices influence internal struc...
S1 · E7 · 3 Dec 2025 · 15 min
Episode 7 - Angular limb deformities in foals
In this episode, we explore Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs) in foals—one of the most important developmental challenges faced by breeders, farriers, and equine veterinarians. These early-life limb deviations can influence a horse’s long-term soundness, athletic potential, and overall welfare. This conversation unpacks what ALDs are, how they develop, how to diagnose them, and the full spectrum of modern treatment options. • What Are Angular Limb Deformities? Definitions of valgus and varus de...
S1 · E6 · 19 Nov 2025 · 18 min
Episode 6 - The role of macrominerals in hoof health
In this episode, we explore how the major dietary macrominerals calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and sulphur shape the health of the equine hoof from the inside out. We break down the biological roles of each mineral, their influence on keratin formation, circulation, immune function, and inflammation control, and how imbalances can lead to structural hoof defects or systemic health issues. What You’ll Learn: How calcium supports keratinisation and immune cell sign...
S1 · E5 · 5 Nov 2025 · 14 min
🇮🇹 Episodio 5 - Fratture dell'osso del piede
In questo episodio di The Hoofcare Companion, il conduttore Marc Jerram approfondisce uno degli infortuni più importanti ma spesso fraintesi del piede equino: le fratture dell’osso pedale. Con il contributo di esperti in veterinaria e mascalcia, Marc spiega come si verificano queste fratture, la loro classificazione e i più recenti metodi di diagnosi, trattamento e riabilitazione. Gli ascoltatori scopriranno l’importanza della radiografia, della ferratura terapeutica e della gestione d...
S1 · E5 · 5 Nov 2025 · 14 min
🇪🇸 Episodio 5 - Fracturas del hueso del pedal
En este episodio de The Hoofcare Companion, el presentador Marc Jerram analiza una de las lesiones del casco más importantes pero a menudo mal comprendidas: las fracturas del hueso pedial. Con la participación de expertos en veterinaria y herrería, Marc explica cómo se producen estas fracturas, cómo se clasifican y cuáles son los métodos más recientes para su diagnóstico, tratamiento y rehabilitación. Los oyentes descubrirán la importancia de la radiografía, el herraje terapéutico y la...
S1 · E5 · 5 Nov 2025 · 14 min
Episode 5 - Pedal Bone Fractures
In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram explores one of the most significant yet often misunderstood hoof injuries — pedal bone fractures. Joined by expert insights from veterinary and farriery perspectives, Marc breaks down how these fractures occur, how they’re classified, and the latest approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the vital role of radiography, therapeutic shoeing, and owner management durin...
S1 · E4 · 21 Oct 2025 · 12 min
🇪🇸 Episodio 4 - Artritis de la articulación del casco
En este episodio abordamos la artritis de la articulación del casco, una causa frecuente y compleja de cojera en los caballos. Analizamos cómo esta enfermedad degenerativa afecta el rendimiento y cómo herramientas diagnósticas como los bloqueos nerviosos, las radiografías y la imagen avanzada ayudan a planificar tratamientos precisos de herraje y veterinaria. También exploramos las estrategias de recorte y herraje para aliviar el estrés articular, las terapias de apoyo como las inyeccio...
S1 · E4 · 21 Oct 2025 · 12 min
🇮🇹 Episodio 4 - Artrite dell’articolazione del piede
In questo episodio analizziamo l’artrite dell’articolazione del piede—una delle principali cause di zoppia nei cavalli. Scopri come questa condizione degenerativa influisce sulle prestazioni e come strumenti diagnostici come i blocchi nervosi, le radiografie e le immagini avanzate possano guidare interventi precisi di mascalcia e terapia veterinaria. Parliamo delle tecniche di pareggio e ferratura per ridurre lo stress articolare, dei trattamenti di supporto come le infiltrazioni e le t...
S1 · E4 · 21 Oct 2025 · 12 min
Episode 4 - Coffin Joint Arthritis
In this episode, we explore coffin joint arthritis, a common yet complex cause of lameness in horses. Discover how this degenerative joint condition affects performance, and how diagnostic tools like nerve blocks, radiographs, and advanced imaging guide precise farriery and veterinary treatment. We discuss trimming and shoeing strategies to relieve joint stress, supportive therapies such as joint injections and biologics, and practical owner management tips including exercise, envi...

About The Hoofcare Companion

The Hoofcare Companion is a English tech & science podcast from Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Master Farrier
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 16 min
Latest episode: 29 Sep 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1834485863

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