- Categories:
- Animal
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- AwarenessPetPet Health
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- International
- Date change rule:
- Every February
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International Hoof Care Month is observed throughout February, drawing crucial attention to the importance of healthy hooves for animals. This month encourages education on proper care, prevention of ailments, and support for professionals dedicated to animal welfare. Learn how to recognize issues, find expert care, and contribute to the well-being of hooved creatures.
Want to sponsor International Hoof Care Month? Learn how
Expected International Hoof Care Month Deals
During International Hoof Care Month, the focus shifts from commercial deals to education, awareness, and support for animal welfare. Veterinary clinics often offer discounted hoof health checks or educational seminars. Brands like Farnam and Absorbine may highlight their hoof care products, while organizations such as the American Association of Professional Farriers (AAPF) promote educational resources and certification programs. Pet supply stores might feature special promotions on hoof supplements and tools. Donations to animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, like the ASPCA or local equine rescues, are encouraged to help provide essential care for animals in need. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as February approaches.
Platform Guide for International Hoof Care Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #HoofCareMonth. Share photos or short videos of healthy hooves, care routines, or animals benefiting from good hoof health.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #InternationalHoofCareMonth. Share educational articles, host Q&A sessions with farriers, or highlight local vets.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #HoofHealth. Share quick facts, statistics, and links to resources about hoof care and animal welfare.
International Hoof Care Month Hero
Dr. Doug Butler
History of International Hoof Care Month
While the origins of International Hoof Care Month are largely unknown, we do know that this day was set aside to create awareness of hoof-care health. This sounds like a good day to know everything there is to know about animal hooves.
A hoof is basically an enlarged toe made of keratin, a protein also found in human hair and nails. Hooves are composed of two structures, the ‘unguis,’ and the ‘subunguis.’ The ‘unguis’ is the nail, while the ‘subunguis’ is a fine layer on the underside of the nail. The ‘unguis’ surrounds the tip of the animal’s digit like a cylinder, encircling the ‘subunguis.’ Animals with hooves are known as ‘ungulates.’ There are two categories of ungulates, odd-toed ungulates called ‘Perissodactyla’ and even-toed ungulates called ‘Artiodactyla.’ The odd-toed ungulates use an odd number of their toes while moving, usually one or three. The even-toed ungulates walk on an even number of toes, usually two or four.
Just as we take care of our feet and toes, so we should take care of animals’ hooves since hooves affect their mode of transport and, consequently, every other area of their lives. They may develop infections or start walking with a limp. For animals that move in herds, any animal with an injured hoof won’t keep up with the rest of the herd, becoming vulnerable to predators. For others, such as horses, hooves bear the full brunt of the animal’s weight. Having an injured hoof puts them under significant stress and has a negative impact on their overall health.
International Hoof Care Month timeline
Straw hoof boots are used by the Japanese military to protect and give traction to horses' feet.
Lawn boots are used for horses, ponies, and donkeys in Europe.
The Journeymen Horseshoers National Union is founded.
Neel Glass invents the first modern hoof boot for barefoot horses.
How Businesses Can Celebrate International Hoof Care Month
Local businesses can honor International Hoof Care Month by partnering with veterinary clinics and farriers to offer educational workshops or discounted services. Pet supply stores can create themed displays highlighting hoof care products, while feed stores can host informational sessions on nutrition for hoof health. Equine boarding facilities might offer free hoof inspections or bring in guest speakers to educate clients on best practices. Emphasize the long-term benefits of preventative care for animal well-being.
International Hoof Care Month FAQs
When is International Hoof Care Month?
In 2027, International Hoof Care Month will be observed from Monday, February 1, to Monday, February 28. It’s an opportune time for animal owners and professionals to focus on preventative measures and education for optimal hoof health.
Why is hoof care so important for animals?
Healthy hooves directly contribute to an animal’s quality of life, preventing discomfort and serious conditions like arthritis or joint problems. Neglecting hoof care can result in chronic pain and reduced welfare, making regular attention and professional intervention vital for their well-being.
What professionals specialize in hoof care?
The primary specialists are farriers, who provide routine maintenance and corrective shoeing. Additionally, veterinary podiatrists are veterinarians with advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex hoof conditions, often working in conjunction with farriers for comprehensive care.
What are common signs of hoof problems?
Owners should look for changes in hoof texture, excessive growth, or signs of infection like pus or discharge. Behavioral cues such as shifting weight, lying down more frequently, or difficulty standing are also indicators that an animal may be experiencing hoof discomfort or pain.
How to Observe International Hoof Care Month
Give proper care
Have a pet or farm animal with hooves? Now is the time to check on them. Schedule an appointment with a farrier or look after their hooves yourself.
Make a veterinary appointment
An animal's hooves are but a part of their bodies. Schedule an appointment with a vet to make sure your animal is in overall good health.
Share details about hoof care
Share what you know about International Hoof Care Month with your network. You could save other animals from suffering due to health issues.
5 Unusual Animals With Hooves
Tapir
Tapir is a mostly nocturnal animal with a heavy body and fleshy snout, found in tropical America and Southeast Asia.
Red goral
Red goral is an even-toed ungulate, mostly found in Tibet, Myanmar, and India.
Takin
Also called cattle chamois or gnu goat. It’s a large, muscular, and hoofed mammal, native to the eastern Himalayas.
Bison
Also known as buffalo or wisent, bison are large bovines.
Calamian deer
The Calamian deer is an endangered species of deer that can only be found in the Calamian Islands of the Philippines.
Why International Hoof Care Month is Important
It’s a day to show gratitude
Animals benefit us in every way. They're put to work, provide food, and even kept as pets. We could never live without them. Their existence is a grand blessing worthy of tremendous gratitude.
It teaches proper animal treatment
International Hoof Care Month encourages treating animals properly. Just like us, they too are living beings that feel pain. Hence, they deserve kindness and consideration.
It advocates against animal cruelty
This special month discourages animal cruelty of all kinds. Animal cruelty is morally wrong and unkind on top of being illegal.
International Hoof Care Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2030 | February 1 | Friday |
| 2031 | February 1 | Saturday |
Social Media Tips for International Hoof Care Month
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