I am confused with conflicting advice on which treatments to put on hooves to help them stay strong. Can you help?
 | I am confused with conflicting advice on which treatments to put on hooves to help them stay strong and supple, or even if I need them at all. I have heard one make has embalming fluid in it! Can you help? James Mundell DipWCF If you have questions about Hoof Care please send an email to: admin@voicesforhorses.co.uk |
Question: I am confused with conflicting advice on which treatments to put on hooves to help them stay strong and supple, or even if I need them at all. I have heard one make has embalming fluid in it! Can you help? Jody Oxon James Answers: Dear Jody, With a balanced diet, good management, daily care such as picking out the hooves and being shod or trimmed regularly you don't typically need to put anything on them. During dry spells (and this applies to both winter and summer) you want to avoid feet becoming so dry they become cracked and brittle so it is a good idea to regularly hose the feet. There are many ‘moisturizing' products on the market so ask your farrier what (if any) he recommends. Traditional hoof oil can actually stop essential moisture entering the hoof so when choosing any hoof product always make sure it allows the hoof to breath. During wet spells try and avoid the feet becoming too soft. Again this is down to management. If horses live out for example there needs to be an opportunity for their feet to dry out, either in a shelter or stable. If a horse has genetically weak feet or there is a problem due to previous bad management there may also be a supplement that will help, again ask your farrier for his advice. |
Added on: 28/06/09.
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