Horse Hoof Care
Introduction to Horse Hoof Care
| Care of a horse’s hooves is essential, for the feet of a horse are among the most important and delicate parts of their bodies. Given the weight and strain that horses bear—whether they’re carrying riders or heavy loads—it’s not surprising that lameness occurs in the foot far more than in any other part of the body. Though some horses and ponies go barefoot, most are shod with iron shoes that protect their feet. Healthy hooves are also vital to the overall health of horse. A horse’s feet must be cleaned regularly to help avoid infection, injury and lameness. Having healthy hooves can also improve a horse’s leg and bone structure. |  |
Picking Out the Horses Hooves
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Picking out a horse’s feet is a simple process and one that goes a long way in preventing common hoof problems. Before picking out the hooves it’s best to check to see if the horse’s shoes are in good condition and to look for irregularities on the foot, such as thrush. |
A horse’s feet should be cleaned before and after going on a ride or whenever the horse leaves or returns to its stall. Check the hooves and remove any sticks, stones and any other objects that may have become lodged in the hoof.
Horse hoof care products such as a hoof pick are typically used in the cleaning process. There are several different types of picks, which consist of a handle with a metal wedge that is used to dislodge dirt, mud and other debris; some picks have a stiff brush attached for removing smaller material, such as sand, and for cleaning the frog. The pick is run against the hard sole from the heel to the toe; scraping or puncturing the sensitive frog must be avoided.
Understanding Horse Hooves
| The foot of a horse refers to the hoof, the horny outer structure, as well as the delicate structures inside it. An important part of horse hoof care is determining what is normal for the horse’s hooves. Horse’s hooves are generally okay when they feel slightly warm. Always check the horse’s frog: It will feel rubbery when it is healthy, although if it is peeling, do not be alarmed because horses will generally shed their frogs once or twice a year. |  |
If you are uncertain about horse hoof care, you should consider starting with the basics such as picking and cleaning and then increase your knowledge by attending hoof care workshops given by horse professionals, such as farriers or veterinarians.
Help Your Horse to Grow Healthy Hooves
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Although some horses have naturally healthier hooves than others, hoof growth and development can be improved through simple methods. Hooves may benefit from a nutritional supplement, but horse owners should always first consult a veterinarian or other professional regarding their horse’s nutritional and supplemental needs. |
Regular exercise will also improve the health of a horse’s hooves. Walking and trotting increase the blood circulation in the hoof region, which in turn promotes healthy hoof growth. Hoof growth is central to a horse’s soundness: An adult horse’s hooves grow about 1/3 inch a month (and about ½ inch a month in weanlings), so careful hoof trimming and proper shoeing by a farrier is essential. Most shod horses’ hooves are trimmed every four to eight weeks, depending on the horse and his environment and work load. One last boost to the care of a horse’s hooves is to always work the horse on good stable surfaces.
