Page 212 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 6.14 A horse with a punctured sole or pus in the foot may be reluctant to bear weight on the affected limb
As the pressure builds up inside the foot, the pus is forced along the path of least resistance.
Where there is no drainage hole, it runs under the sole and up the white line. An area of the
coronary band may become swollen and tender before bursting to release the pus.
If you suspect your horse has pus in the foot:
• contact the vet or farrier at once
• clean the foot and look for any obvious wound
• check the horse’s tetanus vaccine is up to date
• apply a poultice and keep the horse stabled on a clean, dry bed.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made on the clinical signs and by examination of the sole of the foot. The
site of penetration may be obvious. If not, hoof testers can be used gently to locate the most
painful area. Paring a thin layer of horn from the sole with a hoof knife often reveals a small
black mark in the sensitive area of the foot. Gentle pressure from the hoof testers may force
