Page 224 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

®
Cornucrescine increases the local blood supply and is reported to improve the growth rate
of the horn.
VetBooks.ir PROMPT TREATMENT OF CRACKS AND OTHER HOOF WALL DEFECTS

As soon as cracks begin to develop, consult your farrier. Prompt remedial action may prevent

a more serious problem developing.

HOOF WALL CRACKS

Hoof wall cracks are splits in the hoof wall. They are described according to:

• location, i.e. toe, quarter or heel

• depth, i.e. superficial or full wall thickness

• site of origin, i.e. ground surface or coronary band
• orientation, i.e. vertical or horizontal

• length

• whether or not they are infected.

Grass cracks are vertical cracks that begin at the ground surface and extend upwards. They

occur when hooves spread and split due to inadequate or infrequent trimming (Figures 6.22
and 6.23).