Which tool is commonly used first when removing a horse's shoe?

The nail puller is typically used first when removing a horse's shoe because it is specifically designed to grip and remove the nails that secure the shoe to the hoof. Its construction allows for an efficient extraction of the nails without causing damage to the hoof or the horse.

Using a nail puller involves placing the tool under the nail head, allowing the user to leverage the tool effectively to extract the nail from the hoof wall—this is a critical step that facilitates the safe removal of the shoe. After all nails have been pulled, other tools like pincers might be employed to lift off the shoe itself, and a rasp is used later for smoothing and shaping the hoof. The knife can be used to trim excess sole or frog, but it is not the primary tool for shoe removal.

This order of operations is essential for ensuring the safety of both the horse and the handler, as it prevents unnecessary injuries and maintains the integrity of the hoof structure.