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Shoes mask weaknesses, barefoot highlights strengths

Friday, 1 January 2010

Contracted hoof, high heels, compacted sole

I didn't know where to start with this post, nor how to write it without offending somebody. But the case is what it is. I'll post the pictures, along with notes and let you make your own mind up.

HEALTHY HOOVES
These are a couple of hooves which show what horse feet should look like. When we take care of our horses, these models are what we need to keep in mind.


These hooves belonged to a hard working, healthy, wild horse which regularly travelled 20+ miles a day over varied, rocky terrain.

A SICK HOOF
This hoof arrived wrapped in bandage, with two nails protruding from the bottom. There was blood coming from around the nail at the bottom of the picture.
The heel was raised with a wedge pad, held on with an egg bar shoe.

With shoe and wedge pad removed. The material adhering to the sole is old shavings bedding.


With a basic clean up, it can be seen that the front of the hoof has been cut off.

The hoof is abcessed, the heels are very high and contracted. The sole is deeply compacted and the frog has almost disappeared.
Compare these photos with the healthy hooves.
A competent AANHCP trim will work towards keeping the foot in line with the healthy model.

3 comments:

Andrea said...

Oh my god!!!
Even people who regularly shoe their horses and poo-poo the barefoot movement I would hope could see that the reason that horse is dead right now is because of those feet!!!

Lucy Priory said...

Hi Andrea. I just feel sick at the thought of the suffering that this horse had to endure. I also hope that whomever was responsible realises their liability and commits to never letting this happen again.

Unknown said...

Agree. Cruelty case. Farrier and owner should be charged.

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Southern England, United Kingdom