View Unit : Determine the foot care plan for the equine

Select a method of humane handling and control that is appropriate for the equine concerned and its requirements in order to minimise the risks to the animal, the handler, yourself and others

Adopt a working position that is safe for yourself and the equine

Clean the feet to facilitate a thorough examination of the hoof

Examine the shoes, if fitted, and assess wear

Examine the feet and assess their condition and wear pattern if not shod

Propose and agree an equine foot care plan with the person responsible for the equine, agreeing any variants to be included, taking into account the physical requirements and activity of the equine and any abnormal signs which may mean that veterinary assistance may be required

Ensure that the equine’s health and welfare is maintained

Maintain health and safety of the equine, yourself and others at all times

Describe how to assess shoe wear or foot wear

Describe remedial and preventative measures appropriate for the welfare of equines

Describe hoof growth, regularity and frequency of shoeing or trimming

Describe the anatomy and physiology of the lower limb including knee and hock

Describe the function of all parts of the foot

Describe conformation and locomotion of the equine and how they relate to the bio-mechanics of the foot

Describe how to recognise malformation, disease and/or injury of the limb and foot and appropriate treatments that can be used

Describe the following types of malformation, disease and or injury inlcuding; signs, causes, structures affected and treatment

(a) Degenerative joint disease

(b) Co-lateral ligament desmitis

(c) Bone spavin

(d) Curb

(e) Navicular syndrome

(f) Laminitis and founder types

(g) Side bone

(h) Synovial distensions

(i) Tendon Injuries Inc. tenosynovitis

(j) Check ligament sprain

(k) Splints

(l) Palmar hoof pain

(m) Fractures

(n) Basic limb deformities in young stock and adult

(o) Puncture wounds

(p) Thin soles

(q) Corns

(r) False quarter

(s) Thrush

(t) Sub solar and sub mural infections

(u) White line disease and seedy toe

(v) Hoof wall cracks

(w) Hoof capsule distortion

Explain how the anatomy, confirmation and pathology of the lower limb affects the equine

Describe why it is important to liaise with other professionals to raise concerns which might impact on the foot care plan

State why it is important to liaise with other professionals to discuss previous veterinary diagnoses and the effect on the foot care plan

Explain the factors to consider and the importance of using the assessment of the equine when determining foot care plans

Describe the principles of static and dynamic foot balance

Describe methods of measuring the foot

Explain the ancillary features which may be included in the foot care plan

Explain how to take into consideration any veterinary diagnoses and any signs of equine abnormality