Posted by jennifer West on June 05, 2002 at 16:07:20:
In Reply to: What Can We Do? posted by M W. Myers, D.V.M. on July 08, 2001 at 14:43:44:
: Just came across a case of chronic laminitis a new farrier attempted to shoe Friday. He applied a steel Natural Balance shoe out to nearly the end of the laminitic hoof. Radiographs showed he had the breakover 1 1/2 inches ahead of where it should be. How can we get the word out that one day owners are going to start sueing farriers that do this? Why didn't he insist the owner call a veterinarian before attempting to shoe this horse? If she "squeaked" about money he could ask what veterinarian she uses and then at least call that office and report what was being requested and he was not in agreement to shoe the horse without xrays, but the owner is declining. At least it would be officially recorded and the veterinarian would have a very high opinion of this farrier. Minimally, he should insist that the owner sign a statement that she is decling proper care to get him off the hook. This owner either does not remember or was not informed of the problems this horse was facing. I am going in on Wednesday to charge her $300 to shoe this horse. He is not real difficult, but will need some correction. She is very upset with the farrier, but I have convinced her to call him in for the shoeing so he can learn how to do this and then he can reset the shoes.
: M. W. Myers, D.V.M.