Like the expression goes, “no hoof – no horse”. It’s highly advised that you always keep your horse’s hooves in the best condition possible. With a bit of additional work, you’ll be able to guarantee that your horse’s hooves stay in excellent condition throughout his or her life time.

Let’s have a look at typical hoof problems and ways to prevent them. Whenever a horses hooves are left in a continuously wet or unclean area for a lengthy period of time, they will develop what is recognized as thrush. This disorder is a bacterial disease that creates a dreadful smell and may gradually develop much more critical health conditions. A neat and dry stall in addition to some over-the-counter medicine may help cure the condition. If you find that your equine has gotten a bad case of thrush, you might need to contact your veterinarian for assistance.

Another widespread hoof problem seen in horses is abscess. This problem is caused by injury to the delicate area of the hoof. Abscess may also develop due to an ill-fitted horse shoe nail or any other trauma. Lameness can be brought on by abscesses so it is very important that you try to prevent them. If you discover any kind of abscess, protect the injured foot with substantial wrappings and call the veterinarian immediately. If the sharp object is still stuck, by no means try to pull it out on your own.

Cracks can form in hooves simply by an improper trimming or shoeing. Extremely dry environments may even cause cracks to form. The cracks can either begin to form at the bottom of the hoof or at the top of the hoof. Furthermore, cracks might form from irregular hoof growth. Always ensure that no matter which way the hoof develops, it is repaired immediately. Contact the farrier and discuss the problem with him or her. The farrier will examine the condition and can determine whether the crack demands immediate attention or if it can wait till your next routine shoeing.

Bruised hooves brought on naturally or by way of a bad cut or shoe job may cause corns to form. Lameness can be the outcome of a neglected corn. If you discover a corn, give the horse with some rest and place the leg within heavy covering in order to avoid additional injury and contact the veterinarian.

You will discover that there are important things you can do to defend against equine hoof problems. The first thing you ought to do is to be sure to schedule routine visits with an experienced professional. It is recommended that you do this every month and a half. You will also discover that regular hoof picking can assist in helping you quickly locate problems as soon as they begin to arise. Last but not least, you should be sure your horse’s diet is as perfect as you may get it.