Hoof Care

Hoof Care

Alternative Veterinary Medicine Centre

Holistic Vet - Homeopathic Vet - Acupuncture Vet - Herbal Vet - Natural Vet

Equine Hoof Care

Care of the horse's foot

Horses depend upon the integrity and health of the hooves, for their very existence, let alone well-being, welfare and effective locomotion. Despite appearances, it is a surprisingly resilient structure but, with our modern domestic management some challenges can arise.

Firstly, there is the question of whether to shoe or to allow the horse to go 'barefoot' or shoeless. It appears that a horse's hoof will adapt to prevailing conditions and demands, allowing many to go barefoot even when worked. If occasional exposure to stony tracks is necessary, a boot can be fitted (as long as it doesn't chafe). Allowing the foot some time without shoes, whatever long-term policy is used, is very important for foot health.

Image shows a traditional Western Irish method of hoof protection for the unshod working pony (leather boot). Modern versions are usually made of rubber.

Diet is an essential component of hoof health. The horn of the tough structure has to form properly, to give strength, flexibility and integrity of protection to the foot within. Feeding the correct foods is a vital first step.

The bedding upon which a horse is stabled can be important. Shavings may encourage ammonia, which is damaging and can dry the hoof excessively.

Mud is another potential enemy. Muddy gateways and poached fields are likely to cause problems with hoof structure. Oiling of the hooves, to provide protection against this, may become necessary. However, too much oiling can prevent the correct evaporation from the surface of the hoof and cause damage that way (as in most fields of equine activity, there is a plethora of hoof care products vying for your money - we advocate caution).

Liming of gateways and poached areas is likely to reduce the population of damaging organisms in such areas (e.g. as might lead to thrush etc.).

Cracked hooves should be dealt with promptly, to prevent worsening and to reduce the likelihood of structural damage or of infection entering the foot. Herbs, Homeopathy and nutrition can be a very important part of dealing with this problem.

White line separation must also be dealt with promptly, for similar reasons.

Laminitis is likely to cause damage to the hoof's structure and function. We can only recommend very prompt natural medicine input, to deal with this issue.

The AVMC offers advice and help for good hoof care, as part of the holistic package offered to patients/clients.

Alternative Veterinary Medicine Centre

Holistic Vet - Homeopathic Vet - Acupuncture Vet - Herbal Vet

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