Page 223 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

hoof wall is too weak for conventional shoeing, glue-on shoes often provide a temporary

solution while the damaged area grows out. Because no nails are used, the stress on the hoof
VetBooks.ir wall is considerably reduced.

ENSURE THE HORN DOES NOT BECOME EXCESSIVELY DRY

Approximately 15–20% of the outer hoof wall and 45% of the inner hoof wall is water. This
needs to remain fairly constant for the horn to maintain its strength and elasticity. Where the
horn is too dry it becomes brittle and cracked; if it is too moist it becomes soft and crumbly.

A balance has to be established between evaporation and absorption of moisture from the
hoof surface and the diffusion of moisture from blood vessels in the underlying sensitive

tissues. This is effectively controlled by the waxy periople and the hard outer layer of the
hoof wall under normal conditions.

The value of hoof oil and other dressings is the subject of much debate. In some
situations they are helpful. If the horn is very dry, application of a lanolin-based hoof

dressing may be beneficial. The best person to advise you on this is your farrier who is
familiar with your horse and the environment in which it is kept.

AVOID VERY WET ENVIRONMENTS

If at all possible, remove horses from very wet pastures during the winter. Keep bedding
material clean and dry.

TREAT INFECTED HORN WITH A TOPICAL HOOF DISINFECTANT

There is a variety of topical preparations that act as a hoof disinfectant and conditioner. These
tackle harmful fungi and bacteria and help to correct hoof capsule moisture balance in
excessively wet or dry conditions, thus maintaining the hoof elasticity and shock absorbing

properties.

TRY TO KEEP THE HORSE IN WORK

Regular exercise is important for the normal function and blood supply of the foot. It is well

known that long hours of stabling or box rest can lead to foot problems. If the horse has weak
and damaged hoof walls, regular light exercise in a suitable environment is beneficial. Road

work, hard ground and deep mud should be avoided if possible until sufficient good quality
horn has grown for the shoe to be nailed on securely.

APPLICATION OF MILD BLISTERS TO THE CORONARY BAND

In some horses, daily massaging of the coronary band with mildly irritant substances, e.g.