S2 E30: Talkin’ Thoroughbred Feet: A Farrier’s Perspective with Jason Hillman
Farrier Jason Hillman CF, based in Chester County, PA, joins OTTB on Tap to tackle one of the most debated topics in Thoroughbred aftercare: hoof health. Jason shares insight into Thoroughbred feet, OTTB hoof care, and the real factors that impact long-term soundness, drawing from his experience working with a large Thoroughbred client base and retraining his own OTTBs.
In addition to being a trusted farrier in the Mid-Atlantic, Jason is also an event rider. He competes his supermare Cruisewithbrandon and is preparing his warhorse gelding Kingsville for the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover, where he’ll compete as a team with his mother, June Hillman—a past guest on the podcast and lifelong Thoroughbred advocate.
From radiographs and shoeing cycles to common concerns like thin soles, weak walls, and negative palmar angles, Jason breaks down what matters most when managing OTTB hooves. We also explore modern tools like glue-ons, frog support, wedges, and flat pads—plus when to use them (and when not to).
You’ll hear:
- What to expect post-track and how to set your horse up for success
- Tips for high/low syndrome, moisture management, and fly season
- Why farrier-owner communication is essential—and how to build it
- Listener-submitted questions on PPEs, bell boots, and hoof hacks
Whether you're retraining your first OTTB or working with seasoned sport horses, this episode offers real-world hoof care advice from someone who lives it in and out of the saddle.
