Page 267 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

to heal and reduce the chances of subsequent rotation and sinking. When sufficiently

recovered they can be turned out into a riding arena each day and slowly introduced to short
VetBooks.ir periods of controlled in-hand walking.

Hoof care

The aim of hoof care is to minimize the strain on the weakened laminae to prevent rotation or
sinking of the pedal bone. The forces acting on the laminae include:

• the weight of the horse
• the constant pull of the deep digital flexor tendon

• the leverage on the toe of the hoof capsule as the horse walks.

REMOVAL OF SHOES

Whether or not the shoes are removed when the condition is first diagnosed depends on the
severity of the case, the condition of the feet and the judgement of the attending vet and

farrier. They are usually left on until the pain is under control. If for any reason the shoes
have to be removed, this is done carefully to minimize the pain and trauma.

CORRECTIVE TRIMMING AND SHOEING

The long-term aim of corrective trimming and shoeing is to improve the blood supply to the
foot, to restore the normal alignment of the pedal bone and the hoof capsule and to correct

the distortion of the hoof capsule. Distortion of the hoof capsule leads to chronic pain
because it traumatises the underlying sensitive tissues. Radiographs are important for

determining the best way to achieve this and the vet and farrier should work together. Using
the X-rays as a guide, the farrier is likely to:
• shorten long toes to reduce the forces on the laminae during breakover

• rasp back the front of the hoof wall and the sole near the toe to relieve pressure on the

blood vessels
• remove excessive heel growth in animals with chronic laminitis

• fit special shoes where required to support the frog or the whole of the back part of the

foot
• if necessary, the heel will be raised to reduce the tension of the deep digital flexor tendon

on the pedal bone.

The corrective trimming is done in stages over several months. Trimming is usually carried