Abstract: A hoof protection apparatus and method includes a hoof support platform with a top, a bottom, a front, a first side, a second side, and a space between the first side and the second side, where the front is connected by a hinge device to the first side and by a hinge device to the second side such that the first side is independently movable and such that the second side is independently movable. At least three separate hoof contact devices are provided where at least one hoof contact device is connected to the front of the hoof support platform and at least one hoof contact device is connected to the first side and at least one hoof contact device is connected with the second side. An attachment device for attaching the hoof protection apparatus to a hoof is provided where the attachment device is removably attached to the hoof protection apparatus.

Abstract: A removable horseshoe clip for temporarily placement on a horseshoe during the fitment process to secure the horseshoe against slipping or rotational movement during nailing, and method of use. The removable horseshoe clip includes an inner retaining clip sized to engage the inner peripheral edge of a horseshoe, a broad base for seating against the bottom surface of the horseshoe, and an outer retaining clip adapted to abut the outer peripheral edge of a horseshoe and the outer surface of a hoof wall.

Abstract: A nailess horse shoe having a cup shaped configuration open at the rear part, molded of flexible plastics or polyurethyne material having a forwardly extending slot shaped opening in the bottom. A sponge rubber sole is provided on the lower surface on the bottom of the shoe and clamping or tightening members in the form of rod members extend between the lateral side walls and are provided with tightening nuts to draw the lateral side walls towards each other into clamping engagement onto the horse's hoof. A sock is insertable between the hoof and the inner surface of the shoe and a device for attaching weights is provided on the front of the shoe.

Abstract: A horseshoe includes a generally U-shaped body member having a planar upper surface and a pair of free ends. An upstanding projection is mounted on the upper surface at each free end for fitting in corresponding pockets in the horse's hoof. A band may also span the free ends of the horseshoe to restrain the outward spreading thereof.

Abstract: Equine footwear according to the invention comprises a split ring of a configuration corresponding to the peripheral outline of a hoof of an ungulate animal with the split disposed at the rear or heel portion thereof. The ring in cross section constitutes an acute angle with a lower flange disposed at a slight angle to the horizontal for fitting beneath the generally concave bottom of the hoof, and an upwardly extending flange for surrounding the outer wall of the hoof so that the device constitutes the equivalent of a slipper. The footwear is made of a material having some pliancy or flexibility such as a soft metal but preferably of a plastics material so that it can conform to the particular hoof to which it is applied and permit expansion and contraction of the hoof during movement of the animal. The opposed ends of the ring may be adjustably and releasably secured together to accommodate adjustment and replacement.