Shoeing of Clydesdales

Due to animal welfare and the agreement of the Farriers Registration Council and the Worshipful Company of Farriers, it is no longer acceptable for farriers to shoe Clydesdales in the manner known as couping. This means you cannot apply a shoe that has one lateral heel and one that is not fitted full length on the inside of the foot. Due to the imbalance this causes to the hind limbs, farriers can be held responsible and may result in statutory proceedings. The Association feels this is a great step towards promoting and protecting the welfare of Clydesdales across the country.