Spring 2026 Updates
A Note to My Clients & Community
First and foremost — thank you.
Thank you for your continued trust, your loyalty, and for allowing me to care for your horses. Hoof care is not a small responsibility. The comfort, balance, and long-term soundness of your equines matter deeply to me, and I am genuinely grateful to be part of their care team.
Continuing Education & Professional Development
From February 3–6, I attended the International Hoof Care Summit in Covington, KY. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow professionals and attend lectures covering current research, biomechanics, pathology, and evolving approaches to hoof care. One of the my favorite lectures was presented by Simon Curtis and Gavin Moody, titled Improving Hoof Angles During Exercise. They shared a groundbreaking study tracking hoof angles in 36 Thoroughbred racehorses over 30 days of training, demonstrating that removing shoes allowed hoof morphology to measurably improve-suggesting a powerful pathway for restoring healthy angles and helping prevent lameness and early retirement. Although the findings weren’t surprising to me given my experience as a barefoot trimmer and proponent of natural hoof care, it was rewarding to see a study affirming the effectiveness of this approach.
I also continue to serve as Dean of Students for Progressive Hoof Care Practitioners, which keeps me actively involved in practitioner education and the advancement of standards within our industry.
In addition, I regularly participate in webinars, clinics, and ongoing study to ensure that I am bringing current knowledge and thoughtful decision-making to every equine I work on.
Pricing Update
In order to continue operating sustainably and providing the level of care you and your horses deserve, I will be implementing a price adjustment beginning May 1, 2026.
Raising prices is never something I do lightly. I understand that everyone is feeling the strain of inflation and rising fuel costs. At the same time, the cost of operating a mobile hoof care practice has increased significantly — including gas, tools and equipment, continuing education, insurance, vehicle maintenance, and the physical demands that come with this work.
In truth, my rates have remained below industry standards for some time. Sustainable pricing allows me to continue serving this community long-term while maintaining the quality, professionalism, and thoughtful care that I believe your horses deserve.
Updated Rates
Maintenance Trim: $75 (within 60 miles of Quincy)
Maintenance Trim $85 (Outside of 60 miles of Quincy)
Pony/Mini Trim $55
Draft Trim $90
Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
If this new rate is a stretch, please feel free to contact me directly.
Upcoming Clinics
I will be teaching the following clinics this year:
Anatomy, Trimming, and Hoof Protection – June 20, 21, 22, Quincy Ca. Click Here to learn more and sign up
Intro to Hoof Health & Anatomy (Hoof Dissection Demonstration) - July 26, 4-9pm, Truckee Ca. Click Here to learn more and sign up.
If you are interested in learning more about hoof anatomy and care, I would love to see you there.
Staying Connected
Last year, my website and email were under Whole Health Horse & Hoof, which I realize was a bit of a tongue twister. I’ve simplified everything to Melody Brooke - my business name, website and social media, so it can grow with me as I continue learning and exploring topics like holistic health, herbalism, bodywork, and other therapies. My focus remains on providing thoughtful, high quality hoof care for your horses, and I look forward to sharing what I learn along the way.
Instagram: @melodybrooke_15
Facebook: @melodybrooke
Website: melodybrooke.org
Updated Payment Options
As always I accept checks and cash, but now I also accept :
Credit Cards (On Site and Secure)
Apple Pay
Venmo @melodybrooke_15 (I switched to a business account and thus have a new handle)
Thank you again for your trust, your partnership, and the opportunity to care for your horses. I value the relationships we’ve built and look forward to continuing to serve this community with integrity, dedication, and care.
Warmly,
Melody