MB Equine Podiatry
Hello!
I'm Mel Bhavsar, a qualified Equine Podiatrist working within 40 miles of Nottingham.
I've not met a horse yet that I didn't like or enjoy working with, but as an owner of a non-ridden horse, I particularly love working with horses that are retired or who have needs that mean they don't have a "job" as so many horses are expected to.
These horses are just as deserving of healthy, functional hooves as any competition horse and it's my pleasure to help them (and their owners) achieve that.
That said, it's very rewarding to help people enjoy doing "normal" things with their unshod horses - long hacks and fun rides, competing and jumping. Barefoot is definitely not just for field ornaments!
What is Equine Podiatry?
Equine Podiatry is about the study of the equine hoof. It covers pretty much anything that can affect the hooves, including all kinds of lameness issues like laminitis and navicular. The hooves are very good indicators of overall health, and so you'll often see Equine Podiatry mentioned alongside terms like "a whole horse approach to hoof care".
This is because to have healthy hooves, you need a healthy horse.
Whilst I do include a balanced trim as part of consultations, I'll also assess and advise on your horse's posture, gait, feed, exercise and management routines. I will also discuss any possible health concerns that I see, and refer you to your vet or other equine professional e.g. bodyworker, saddle fitter etc., where necessary.
What You Can Expect From Me
A quiet, respectful approach to horse handling
A patient and non-judgemental approach to clients (there are no stupid questions!)
Information is provided in a clear, easy to understand manner
Discussion of your horses needs with a realistic plan you can implement easily
Regular 6-weekly appointments (or more frequent for pathologies)
Ongoing support between appointments by phone or email (when necessary)
Consultations
Consultations take about 45 minutes. First appointments can take 60 to 90 minutes as there's more to discuss.
Consultations include:
A balanced trim
Posture, gait, health and environment analysis
Nutrition and exercise advice
Hoof boot measurement and advice (if necessary)
Photos of horse and hooves to track progress
Full visit report including recommendations and details of what's been discussed
Ongoing support between appointments is provided by phone (call or message) or email.
Area Covered
40 mile radius of Nottingham
Services
Consultation: £45
Boot Measuring: £45 (included in consultations)
Call out fee: £0.45 per mile if over 40 miles from Nottingham - contact to discuss
Testimonials
"Mel came to do my horses for the first time today. Very patient, kind and knowledgeable lady. Handled my young and nervous horses with minimum fuss, explained everything and offered sound advice. Their feet look amazing! Very pleased- thank you Mel." MG
"Mel was really patient and considerate with R. He is very good but like most horses gets his weight on the wrong leg sometimes and, unlike some, Mel didn’t just grab his leg and pull it up. She let him know what she wanted and then gave him time to rearrange himself. She watched him walk and trot before and after and gave a detailed report at the end of the trim which was really helpful. She really seems to care about the horses she works with and takes time to get it right. I would highly recommend Mel based on this visit and look forward to seeing how things progress with his feet and action." CR
Terms and Conditions
Cancelation Policy
Cancellation (including rescheduling) of an appointment within 48 hours of the appointment date will incur a 50% charge. Appointments cancelled/rescheduled within 24 hours of the appointment date will need to be paid for in full before a new appointment is scheduled.
Payment Terms
Payment is due at the time of the appointment or, for BACS payments within 24 hours of the appointment or invoice received date.