The Whole Horse Approach: Real Talk with an Equine Podiatrist

Hoof health is a topic full of opinions, myths and often conflicting advice. To help demystify it all, we caught up with Linda Wilmer — also known as Whole Horse Hoof Care — a qualified Equine Podiatrist holding a regulated Level 5 diploma.

In this interview, Linda shares her expert insights on barefoot trimming, podiatry and holistic hoof care. She also tackles important questions like when shoeing might actually be necessary, and gives us inside insight on what a typical day-in-the-life looks like.

So, if you’re a horse owner trying to make sense of your horse’s hooves or unsure which professional is right to guide you on your barefoot journey, this conversation is for you. Let’s dive in.

Why Proper Qualifications Matter in Equine Podiatry

Linda’s journey into equine podiatry started with a clear goal: to gain proper, regulated training in a field that’s surprisingly unregulated in many areas. She explains, “I trained with Equine Podiatry Training because I wanted to be part of something that was working towards a nationally recognised qualification. It actually took about 14 years for that accreditation to come through, but now I hold the Level 5 Diploma in Equine Podiatry – which is the only qualification high enough to join the Equine Podiatry Association.”

That diploma means podiatrists meet a consistent, high standard of knowledge and skills. Whether members qualified before or after the level 5 diploma was awarded, everyone in the Equine Podiatry Association has met this benchmark.

Linda stresses just how important it is to choose a qualified professional: “In this line of work, people often have to rely on your credentials to trust you, especially before they meet you or see your results. Being qualified and regulated gives both owners and horses the best chance at proper care.”

For anyone starting out or looking for a podiatrist, Linda recommends checking the Equine Podiatry Association’s member list first: “They also have student members who are in rigorous training – taking exams and trimming only under supervision. Plus, all members must complete 40 hours of continuous professional development every year. We often work closely with vets, bodyworkers and nutritionists to give horses the best all-round care.”  

Farrier, Podiatrist or Barefoot Trimmer – What’s the Difference?

This is a question Linda hears a lot, and she’s great at breaking it down simply: “A farrier is the only professional legally qualified and registered to prepare a hoof for shoeing and to actually fit shoes. Podiatrists and barefoot trimmers don’t shoe horses – they focus purely on trimming and managing the barefoot horse.”

But despite those differences, Linda believes everyone working with hooves should have a similar foundation of knowledge. “Regardless of your title, you should be able to advise owners on overall hoof health, nutrition and the horse’s environment.”

She points out that podiatrists go a bit further, too, with training in spotting behavioural and movement issues, offering a truly holistic approach that includes gait analysis and ongoing detailed records. “One thing the Equine Podiatry Association requires is that we keep thorough records and provide clients with a report every time we visit. I like to say I’m ‘there all the time’ – not just every four to six weeks when I trim. Owners can reach out in between visits, because hoof care is about the big picture and ongoing support.”

A Day in the Life of an Equine Podiatrist

Linda gave us a peek behind the scenes at how she organizes her typical workday:
“I usually start the night before by confirming appointments and getting all my paperwork and reports ready. Then, I kick off my first visit between 9 and 10 in the morning. My goal is to see around 5 to 6 horses a day, spending about an hour with each one.”

Her visits always begin with a friendly catch-up:
“I ask the owners if there’s been any changes or issues since my last visit. Sometimes those little details don’t come up unless you specifically ask, but they can be really important.”

Next comes the all-important assessments:
“Checking digital pulses every visit is key – it helps me understand what’s normal for each horse. Things like the weather, how recently the horse has worked and other factors can affect pulses, so it’s all about context.”

Linda also watches the horse move carefully:
“I do a gait analysis, watching the horse walk and trot to see how they land and stand. It’s a great way to spot any discomfort or early signs of lameness.”

After the trim, she takes time to chat through what she’s noticed:
“I explain any improvements or concerns, and we talk about the whole picture – gait, behavior, environment – everything that might be affecting the horse’s feet.”

And every six months, Linda shares progress photos to create a visual timeline:
“It’s a fantastic way to show progress over time and can really help owners feel reassured, especially when seasonal weather makes hooves look very different.”

Starting with New Clients – What to Expect

When Linda takes on a new client, she likes to start things off thoughtfully:
“I send out detailed questionnaires beforehand to get a good sense of the horse’s diet, behaviour, and any specific concerns. It helps me do some homework and come prepared for the visit.”

She’s all about taking things step-by-step:
“We change one thing at a time – whether it’s diet, trimming schedule or routine – so owners can really see what’s making a difference without getting overwhelmed.”

Photos play a big role too:
“I always take pictures before and after trims, especially if we’re taking shoes off. It’s a great way to track progress and keep everything clear and transparent.”

Memorable Cases: Miniature Donkey with Severe Laminitis

           Linda with the miniature donkey.

Linda shared one of her most memorable and challenging cases from her training days:
“I needed to complete pathological case studies, so I reached out to a local petting farm and found a little donkey with severe laminitis. Not only did she have the usual dorsal rotation, but her hoof had actually collapsed sideways – medial-lateral rotation – which is quite rare.”

With the help of her mentor and the vet, Linda carefully trimmed the donkey every two to three weeks, slowly improving her balance and comfort despite the fact that all the usual hoof landmarks were gone.
“She was so tiny that we even made custom little boots for her. The owners really listened and followed all the advice, which was absolutely key.”

One important lesson Linda took from this case was how vital movement is for recovery once the worst of the laminitis had passed:
“When she was well on the road to recovery, she needed turnout in a large paddock with other donkeys for companionship. The paddock was bare initially, but that continuous movement made all the difference in helping her heal.”

In the end, the donkey not only survived but thrived – proof that individualized care and commitment can truly transform outcomes.

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Barefoot Hoof Care

Linda points out that there are myths on both sides of the barefoot debate — from sceptics who don’t believe a horse can go barefoot at all, to even some within the barefoot community who get the transition process wrong.

“One big myth is that horses in heavy work absolutely need shoes. The reality is, you have to build up the foot’s strength gradually. Pull the shoes off and then immediately take your horse on a long ride? That’s going to be a struggle.”

She highlights how hoof boots are essential during this transition phase:
“Boots protect the feet from bruising and help the internal structures develop properly. Bruising thins the sole and actually slows down growth, which just sets you back.”

Her advice is to avoid rough, stony tracks or put boots on to protect your horse’s feet, especially in the early stages of a transition, and take your time moving over different surfaces to let their hooves adapt naturally.

Are Shoes Ever the Right Option?

Linda is clear that most horses can thrive barefoot, but she acknowledges there are exceptions.
“If there’s a medical reason – like needing a sterile environment after surgery or a foal with distorted limbs – then yes, shoes and farriery intervention may be necessary.”

She also points out that sometimes it’s about what the owner can realistically manage:
“If an owner struggles with putting boots on because of arthritic hands, or if turnout is handled by someone else who can’t manage the boots properly, then shoes might actually be the better choice.”

Linda shares a personal story, from before she became an equine podiatrist, about her own horse to illustrate how complex it can be: initially, the horse was shod on a yard with stony tracks to and from the paddock and at the time, Linda admits she hadn’t considered the impact of diet or using hoof boots at the time. Later, on a different yard with a better environment and proper use of boots, her horse was able to go barefoot comfortably.
“Sometimes it’s not a quick fix – diet, environment and management all play crucial roles.”

The Heart of the Job: What Linda Loves Most

When asked what she loves most about her work, Linda’s answer is all about people and partnership:
“It’s seeing the changes in people – watching owners notice improvements and get genuinely excited about it. And when the horse is comfortable? That’s a win-win.”

She enjoys the ongoing, two-way teamwork between herself and the horse owner, where everyone learns and grows together.

A Final Round-up

Linda stresses that success in hoof care comes down to respect, patience and realistic expectations:
“It’s about working together with the horse and the owner over time, understanding the whole picture – nutrition, environment, behaviour, and of course, the hoof itself.”

For anyone thinking about barefoot hoof care or wanting to understand more about equine podiatry, Linda’s advice is simple: seek out qualified professionals, take transitions slowly and always prioritize your horse’s comfort first and foremost.

If you want to dive deeper into equine podiatry or barefoot transition, check out the Equine Podiatry Association’s website and consider consulting a regulated professional like Linda for expert guidance tailored to your horse’s unique needs.

About Linda Wilmer:
Linda Wilmer, known professionally as Whole Horse Hoof Care, is a qualified Equine Podiatrist based in Hampshire, UK. She holds a Level 5 Diploma from Equine Podiatry Training and is a proud member of the Equine Podiatry Association.

About Red Horse Products:
Red Horse Products is a UK-based company specializing in natural and effective equine care products designed to support hoof health and overall wellbeing.