Everything a horse or pony needs to stay sound underfoot, done at your property.
Luke offers both hot and cold shoeing. Hot shoeing lets the shoe be shaped closely to the foot for a precise fit, while cold shoeing is quicker and suits many horses in regular work. Luke will recommend what suits your horse, its feet and the ground it works on.
Not every horse needs shoes. For barefoot horses and ponies, a regular trim keeps the hoof balanced and the horse comfortable. Luke trims to suit each horse's conformation and workload, and keeps an eye out for problems before they become serious.
Cracks, flares, under-run heels, thin soles, laminitis and other hoof problems can often be helped with the right trim or a remedial shoe. Luke works alongside your vet where that is needed, so treatment and shoeing pull in the same direction.
A horse's first experiences with the farrier set the tone for life. Luke takes the time to get foals and young horses comfortable having their feet handled, so trims are calm and safe for everyone.
A little preparation makes the visit quicker, safer and easier on your horse.
Most horses need the farrier every six to eight weeks. Hoof growth changes with the season, feed and workload, so some horses need shorter or longer cycles. Luke will suggest a cycle that suits your horse and can book you in on a regular schedule.
Yes. Luke is a mobile farrier and travels throughout Otago to properties, stables and farms. If you are outside the usual service area, get in touch anyway. He may be able to fit you in on a run nearby.
It depends on the horse, its hooves, the work it does and the ground it works on. Plenty of horses do well barefoot with regular trims, while others need the protection and grip of shoes. Luke will give you a straight answer after looking at your horse.
With hot shoeing, the shoe is heated in a forge and shaped to the foot, which gives a very close fit. Cold shoeing shapes the shoe without heat and is quicker. Both are good options when done well, and Luke will recommend the approach that suits your horse.
Often, yes. Many hoof problems can be helped with the right trim or a remedial shoe. For lameness that may have other causes, Luke works alongside your vet so the diagnosis and the shoeing match up.
Call or text Luke on 021 0855 4172, or email luke@lukeurefarrier.co.nz. Let him know where you are, how many horses you have and whether they need shoes or a trim.
Call or text Luke to book a visit or ask a question. He comes to you, anywhere in Otago.