The shoes are part of the equipment and the trainer is responsible for making sure that all equipment is suitable for racing! The best defense is a good offense so be sure to tip the Paddock blacksmith every time and if there isn't one,find out who can help you if you need it!(and pay that guy also). Be sure that you have a spare shoe that fits your horse in the trailer so you don't have to deal with one that "looks close " from the pile. Purses today are too good to wing it! Preparation is what separates the winners from the losers!