When adhered to properly, the AANHCP guidelines prevent invasive trimming practices as well as methods that leave excessive growth which have a deleterious impact on the hoof's integrity and soundness. Contrary to the misguided opinions of either its detractors, the wild horse model does not imply or yield a "cookie cutter" approach to trimming but instead facilitates the unique individual healthy growth patterns of each horse without causing harm or obstructing the natural gaits.