Horseshoe imparting natural conformance and function providing adjustable shape and attenuation of shock and vibration

Abstract

A horseshoe of the present invention taken in combination with a horse's foot imparts a conformance similar to that found in healthy and active horses living in a natural environment. Accordingly, a horseshoe can include an anterior and side concavities. Further, a horseshoe can include segments made of a relatively inflexible material which can be articulated relative to one another about at least one articulation point. The articulation point(s) substantially consist of a relatively flexible material which permits the foot to widen when loaded and enables the horseshoe to be easily fitted. A preferred horseshoe can also include a resilient pad for attenuating shock and vibration. The inclusion of a resilient pad is accomplished without substantially elevating the foot, thus enhancing stability and reducing the potential for injury.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.