Importance

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Abstract

A horseshoe includes a thin, resilient member, embedded in a moldable material such as plastic or composite. Due to this dual construction, the horseshoe is strong yet light in weight. The moldable material has a thickness which varies across the horseshoe, so as to define a cavity in the space between the shoe and the horse's hoof. A channel, formed in the moldable material, provides access to the cavity, which can be filled with a medicated material after the shoe has been attached to the hoof. In an alternative embodiment, a source of current can be connected across the ends of the resilient member, causing the resilient member to function as a resistance heater, which can melt an adhesive used to attach the shoe to the hoof. The latter alternative can also be practiced with conventional all-metal horseshoes, or with an insulating horseshoe that is provided with an external conductive element.

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First Claim