Finding the Hoof Care Balance - Top Tips & Myth Busters
Farriers need a solid understanding of conformation and anatomy. They should understand the biomechanics of how the hoof handles concussion. Elliott cautions against trimming to get the perfect hoof. “Horses rarely have two feet that look alike,” he says. “You need to trim each foot to be in balance and not trim to make them look the same or to a fit a specific measurement.” Shoes are meant to be shaped to the foot, not the other way around.
When should you worry about hoof cracks? Some of the pitfalls that contribute to hoof cracks are toes that are too long, underrun heels, and exposure to too much moisture. Routine care and a proper trim that balances the foot correctly are essential.
Superficial cracks are not an issue; most of the time they can be sanded out. The time to be concerned with cracks is when they are all the way through or go all the way up to the hairline. In those cases, a plan for intervention should be discussed with your farrier.
What causes contracted heels? In most cases, contracted heels are caused by improper balance. Too much stress on any part of the hoof or an area bearing inadequate weight can affect proper blood flow and hoof expansion.
What predisposes a horse to frequent abscesses? Hoof abscesses can be extremely painful and are often accompanied by sudden lameness. An abscess starts with a bruise to an area of the internal structures of the foot. If the bruise is severe enough it can cause a pulsing pain. Think of striking your fingernail with a hammer and not releasing the pressure through a small hole in the nail. After the pressure is released, the throbbing sensation stops; however, there will still be some discomfort for a relatively short period of time.
Elliott theorizes that genetics may predispose a horse to abscesses, along with thin soles. Generally speaking, an average healthy sole will have seven to ten millimetres of what is referred to as live/waxy sole. This sole is able to bear weight and is designed to flex and bend without breaking or cracking. Hooves that have soles thinner than that are at a higher risk of bruising and developing an abscess.
A hoof abscess can happen anytime but is most common during wet winter and spring months. Moisture can soften the foot and make it easier for the bruise to happen. Travelling over rough terrain and frequent stomping caused by nuisance flies can also contribute to foot bruises.
In general, Elliott is not a fan of pads. Imagine the state your feet would be in if you wore rubber boots without socks, he says. Work with your farrier and veterinarian to find the best treatment for an abscess, and then determine prevention strategies.
