Published recently in "The Reflector" newspaper in Battle Ground Washington, is a great article on hoof rehabilitation. It's written about Jerry Huntsinger, owner of JC Farrier Service and all his great work on our four legged friends!
Jerry is passionate about his work, not only is he a farrier but also a hoof rehab specialist. Jerry has been in the business for over a decade, since early childhood he watched his grandfather do similar work and followed in his foot steps. Jerry's work takes him throughout central Oregon and southwest Washington.
Shortly after becoming his own boss, Jerry took notice of many lame horses in the area. He met many people who were unsure of what the future held for their horses's health. Knowing that they needed special help, Jerry went to work! Traditionally a farrier will address a horse's ailment with shoes, Jerry feels that only masks the true problem, much like medications addressing symptoms rather than the root problem. At this point, Jerry dove into research from universities around the world. The results in his studies was learning all about natural hoof care methods. Testing the new form of hoof trimming on his own horses, Jerry purchased hoof boots that featured a comfort pad inside, allowing the horse to use their feet properly. This way the horse has time to develop a callous on their feet and establish correct body mechanics. While gradually decreasing the amount of time the horse wore the boots, he trimmed the hooves twice a month. He also made sure that they ate an impeccably consistent nutritious diet. He could see the more he followed the natural care steps, the better his horses performed! He could see that his horses were able to regrow a hoof from the hairline to the ground in less than six months, where usually they take twice as long to grow a new hoof.
JC Farrier Service charts the animals progress in a computer system. If a horse owner is willing to give the horse time to go through rehab they will succeed every time. Jerry continues to research and build upon the work of other equine experts such as Jamie Jackson and Pete Ramey, Dr. Robert Bowker and Dr. James Rooney. Also, Jerry teaches his techniques at the Oregon School of Natural Care in Jacksonville, Oregon.
Jerry adds" Have the hooves trimmed by a professional. People think it's easy, but a farrier performs incredibly detailed work." If you're in need of help call JC's at (360) 521-1679 or (360) 687-4698. Jerry does make appointments outside regular business hours and works one Saturday a month.
"Thank You Jerry", from EasyCare for a job well done!
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