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Dissection and exploration of the internal and external structures of the foot.
We will start with a short review of anatomy; however, participants will benefit greatly from having a basic understanding of the internal and external structures of the foot prior to attending.
The dissection will be led by the instructor but students will be hands on in helping with the the different stages of the dissection. We will pick two to four hooves that have different morphologies. The number of hooves we dissect may vary depending on what we find and how long we spend with each one. We will compare the differences between healthy and unhealthy structures in each foot. We will learn how to visualize where our internal structures are positioned by reading external landmarks.
Examples of common pathologies we will see may include deep sulcus thrush affecting the frog corium, stretched weak lamina, white line infection, wall cracks, P3 remodeling that is visible externally, wall delamination, abscesses, and thin soles.
Participants will go home with the following abilities to:
To participate in Day 2 you must have attended Day 1 of this clinic.
We will use the assessment techniques learned in Day 1 – Advanced Anatomy to make trimming decisions.We will do a basic intro to reading radiographs before we begin the exercise. Feet will be radiographed prior to trimming. We will be able to critically assess how our trim impacts the position of the hoof capsule in relation to the bony column. Each participant will then complete a self guided dissection/exploration of their foot.
Attending a PHCP Anatomy & Trimming clinic is highly recommended to get the most out of this clinic.
Paige Poss and Jenny Edward’s Anatomy of the Equine online hoof course is recommended for beginners and professionals.
If possible, students should bring their own tools (gloves, apron, nippers, rasp, knife, hoof pick, and stand) but we will have some to share.
If you have a cadaver leg of your own you would like to dissect with us please let us know and bring it along.
Please bring your own lunch to eat on location. There are plenty of places to pick up prepared food in the area ahead of time. We will take an hour lunch break from 12:00 to 1:00.
Erie is a cute little town and the clinic is located north. Near by hotels (Longmont, Lafayette, Boulder), grocery shopping, and restaurants. Depending on your preferences and budget. Some students have found really sweet places to stay on Airbnb.
Denver International Airport is about a 30 minute drive. Use google maps for directions. Apple Maps won’t quite get you there.
Most times it’s cheaper to rent a car than Uber or Lyft. I encourage folks to coordinate with other clinic attendees for car rentals and hotels if you’d like to save on money. If you would like to explore this option, text me at 858-882-7209 and I will help put you in touch with other attendees who are also interested in sharing. There is enough parking in the back. Closer to the date I will email maps, weather forecast and more information.
Start time is 9:00am each day and we’ll finish up at 5:00pm.
Philip Himanka is a PHCP certified practitioner, mentor and clinician. He also has the APF-I certification with the International Association of Professional Farriers. He has been applying glue-on hoof protection for over 10 years, has 2500+ trims on his books each year and has extensive rehabilitation experience. “I try to learn every day from every horse. I love to teach and help prospective practitioners to be successful.”
Philip owns and operates Not Only Barefoot in Erie Colorado.
Day 1, Advanced Anatomy and Morphology, may be purchased and attended on its own. To attend day 2, Radiograph Guided Trimming and Dissection, you must attend day 1.
Certified Practitioners auditing will receive 4 CE credits per day.
$0.00 – $400.00
This advanced anatomy clinic with Philip Himanka will help you to better assess the hoof and visualize the internal structures in relation to external landmarks. For full details visit the Clinics page.
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Type Hands-on
With Philip Himanka
Where Erie, CO
When Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025
Cost $350, $450 non-member
Credits 16
Status Active
All of our educational offerings are open to the public.
An educational foundation for hoof care professionals and horse owners.
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