12/07/2025
Here's an interesting comparison between human and equine anatomy from our friends at Barrow Veterinary Service:
"Did you know that horses are actually walking on the tips of their fingers and toes? 🐎👣
This diagram shows how the horse’s leg bones compare to ours. What looks like a single strong hoof is really the distal phalanx (or coffin bone) – the same bone that makes up the tip of your finger! The long and short pastern bones above it help absorb concussion, while the cannon bone provides strength and support.
Over time, horses evolved to lose most of their “extra toes” (shown in gray on the left). What remains is a highly efficient structure designed for speed, weight-bearing, and shock absorption.
Understanding this anatomy is one reason hoof care and regular farrier/veterinary visits are so important. Any imbalance or injury in these bones can affect the entire limb and your horse’s comfort.
So next time you watch your horse gallop, remember – they’re essentially running on a single finger, protected by a hoof! 💨🐴"
