Taking Care Of Your Horses Hooves
The condition of a horse's hooves and coat are a reflection of his good health. Horses are like people, some have better hooves than others, but there are things you can do to help the hoof along. It is best to have them trimmed and shod every six to eight weeks. You must pick your horses feet before and after riding him. Pick up his foot and working from heel to toe, take your hoof pick and clean out the dirt and debris from the hoof and shoe being careful of the soft frog. Your stable floor should be kept as dry as possible allowing for proper drainage so that the animal won't be standing in a wet stall or paddock. Standing in a wet environment for too long will cause the hoof to dry and crack.The Hoof wall is an important element in the control of the moisture in the hoof. Wash off the foot carefully with a wet hoof brush. In a dry climate this will keep in the hoof moistureized. In damp wet climates use hoof oil on the underside of the foot to keep it dryer and stop the hooves from becoming weak.
Diet is important to a horses foot health. Low protein or an unbalanced diet will cause unhealthy horses and hooves. Supplements may be necessary to add to your horses diet. Some horses, when put on a diet with levels of biotin and methionine, will show improved hoof health. Biotin is a vitamin that promotes the health and growth of keratin and other connective tissue. Methionine is an emino acid that is essential for the growth of healthy hooves. Products high in zinc and copper also promote also helps the hoof remain healthy.
It is also important to remember that unless you are riding your horse frequently or in rough terrain, there is no need to have shoes put on. Many horse do just fine with no shoes at all, and in many cases horses that have had shoes on for long periods of time can take a break from them for a month just to rest the hoof. It can take up to a year for healthy tissue to reach the bottom of the hoof, therefore any supplements may take weeks or months to show any results on the hoof.
posted by Posh Pampered Pets @ 2:20 PM
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