If you are a horse owner in the Chattanooga, TN, or Cleveland, TN area who is interested in learning about alternative options for horse hoof care, then make sure you learn about Heavenly Hooves. I recently had the opportunity to photograph Christina Mendoza-Green, owner of Heavenly Hooves. Heavenly Hooves has provided barefoot trimming for horses in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area since the spring of 2014.
One thing I noticed right away about Christina is her passion for all things hoof-related. We had a very interesting discussion about hoof care, barefoot trimming, and how she even became a barefoot trimmer.
How did you become a Barefoot Trimmer for Horses?
I had managed several barns and we had some hoof problems that never seemed to be resolved by shoeing so I did a lot of research ongoing barefoot.
I felt [barefoot] was the best and healthiest way for my young warmblood and the other horses I was caring for to be. Also, I hoped that it would help some chronic issues and extend the lives of some of our older horses. I have always been willing to be the best steward for the animals I can possibly be even if it causes detriment to my personal goals.
All of my research had led me to believe that it was and is possible for a horse to go barefoot no matter the discipline. It requires a mindset of treating the causes of poor or misshapen hooves vs treating the symptoms.
Unfortunately, I was unable to find a farrier that could or would trim for barefoot performance and health. However, I finally found a wonderful lady who was willing to help us out but she came from South Carolina.
She offered to teach me how to trim since she would not always be able to travel to this area from South Carolina.
So I became a long-distance apprentice and she helped coach me through pictures and monthly visits. Initially, I wanted to only trim my own horses and the horses at the barn. However, my mentor encouraged me, set me up with a few clients, and Heavenly Hooves has grown from there!
What is a big mistake you see a lot of horse owners making when it comes to hoof care?
What are a couple of tips you can give to horse owners who are considering going barefoot with their horses’ hooves?
If you’re considering going barefoot for your horse(s), then find a farrier or trimmer that will focus on helping you with an optimal diet, movement, and trimming plan. These three things must be correct or going barefoot will fail.
Also, remember that it takes 9 months to 1 year for a new hoof capsule to grow from the coronet band to the ground, so understand that it may take that long for your horse to be truly comfortable barefoot.
That being said, there are so many great hoof boot options and things like Hoof Armor and such that we can keep almost every horse comfortable and work through the transition period.
What else do you do besides barefoot trimming?
I give lessons and do a little training. I mainly work out of Hidden Hills Farm and Saddle Club in Ooltewah, TN. My lesson and training work involves a blend of Dressage and natural horsemanship.
Horsemanship focuses on harmony between the horse and rider, and good groundwork for better relationships in the saddle and out. Dressage to balance the horse for longevity, health, and, of course, beauty.
What area(s) does Heavenly Hooves cover?
Heavenly Hooves covers Southeast Tennessee, including Chattanooga, Cleveland, Signal Mountain, and Athens. I also go into the Northwest Georgia area including Rome, Jasper, and Marble Top. Plus, of course, all the areas in between.
Anything else you would like people to know?
I’m all about helping people and their horses live the healthiest and happiest life possible. Sometimes that is not possible with going barefoot, and I respect that, but I am always happy to answer questions, give advice, and help a horse owner try barefoot if they are interested.
The best way to contact me is to text me (423.310.4282) or contact me through Facebook messenger on my business page, Heavenly Hooves.
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Betsy Bird of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Betsy is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the organization Professional Photographers of America (PPA). The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,000 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
Ride the Sky specializes in on-location photography for equines and pets, and has the option of bringing the studio to the stable. Additionally, Ride the Sky provides works with equine and pet brands and businesses to provide commercial photography for their advertising and marketing needs in both the digital and print spaces. Based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works on location in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.