I asked the vet today. He said as long as the horse has good feet to start with, it's healthier for him to go barefoot. It allows the frog to expand and contract which allows for better blood flow. The foot will actually grow a "hook" (may be the wrong word to use as it's not an actual hook) that will allow the foot to grasp the ground better. Shoes with toe grabs will not let that hook grow.
If I didn't explain this well enough, I apoligize. We didn't finish barn calls until late and I just got home 1/2 hour ago. Deb
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