Page 195 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 6.1 External structures of the hoof
PERIOPLE
The periople is a band of soft, pale grey horn which extends a variable distance down the
hoof wall. It bridges the junction between the skin and the hoof wall. It is widest at the heels
where it merges with the frog. It has the important function of restricting evaporation of
moisture from the horn.
HOOF WALL
The hoof wall extends from the coronary band to the ground surface. It is divided into the
toe, the quarters and the heels. The wall is thickest at the toe, where most protection is
needed, becoming thinner and more elastic at the heels which expand when the foot bears
weight. It is reflected forwards from the heels to form the bars, which can be seen when the
foot is viewed from the ground surface (Figures 6.2a and b).
