Barefoot Trimming
Due to my love of horses, and because Covid limited my own trimmer’s travel, I became a barefoot trimmer back in 2019. I learned to trim horses under the mentorship of my trimmer, who insisted that I slowly begin the process of trimming horses between visits. Over time, I apprenticed with two additional mentors, and began trimming 26 plus horses, primarily kill pen rescues with injuries, blindness, neuropathy, trauma and fear. Eventually I found Ida Hammer, and am completing my barefoot trimmer certification through Ida’s organization, Mackinaw Dells 2 Learning Center.
I believe all horses can be ground tied while being trimmed, providing that the horses feel safe before and during my time with them. Training and trimming is a combination of taking the time to chillax the horse and then trimming their hooves in a traditional barefoot style, including heels brought back and toes shortened. Tools include GE Nippers, Cody James rasp (when needed), Heller rasps, hoof stand, hoof knives and some Evo tools at times. Wire brush is critical.
Many of my clients want to learn to trim their horses themselves. I’m always available to provide assistance on the basics, and glad to see more people learning how to take care of their animals.

Here, Pepper (mustang) gets a February 2025 trim. Please click these two youtube videos on our Hearts in Hands Horsemanship channel to see his progress standing still for a trim: Mustang Trim 1, Mustang Trim 2

Please note: Petting and muzzle rub, combined with occasional correction, helps the horse. No tie downs are needed. Getting a pedicure was so much fun, Pepper followed me after his trim. Always leave the horse wanting more, then the next time you work with them they will be even easier to trim.

I prefer that the herd remain close while I’m trimming. Sometimes Pepper will get too close, but I let him make the mistake and correct him at that time. Horses prefer to be in company during trims, plus, the other horses can watch, and wait in anticipation of their muzzle rubs, praise and oh yes, the trim.

The photo below is from a previous trim back in November 2024. I leave the bars so they have traction on our mountain acreage that they climb up and down every day.


I am sometimes available to take on a few more trims here in our area of NY/VT/MA. I specialize in difficult horses who have required sedation in the past to be trimmed, as well as horses who have an extreme fear of the farrier. I work comfortably with blind, injured horses and will help your horse feel good about being trimmed. My rates range from $60 to $100 per trim, depending on the distance, time, difficulty and training involved to get the horse prepared and trimmed.
All horses can be taught to stand “ground tied” while being trimmed. This frequently happens during my first visit with your horse. Remember to love on your horse here and there, giving praise when they do something praiseworthy, while maintaining personal space. I am always happy to mentor you during our training and trimming sessions.
Please note, I am insured through Equisure and I have a brief waiver for training and trimming. Quickest way to contact me about your horse is to send an IM through Facebook: Jules Horsewalker. You may also email me at heartsinhandsllc@gmail.com, or comment on this post.

