Another suggestion is to handle your horse as much as possible. Even as a foal, pick up its feet, tap on its feet with a hoofpick. The younger you start this, the better, she says. Getting a horse accustomed to clippers is also helpful. Run the clippers around the horse-you don't really need to do any clipping, but that way he knows the sound and feel of them.
Hoots also advises touching the horse all over.
Routinely run your hands all over your horse, especially in touchy areas such as the flanks and chest. This serves two purposes. Often owners will detect a small lump or heat in a leg before a problem begins. One more benefit is the shiny coat your horse will get. The old-timers tell me the shiniest coats are made by brushing with your hands.