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When possible, a "barefoot" hoof, at least for part of every year, is a healthy option for most horses. However, horseshoes have their place and can help prevent excess or abnormal hoof wear and injury to the foot. Many horses go without shoes year round, some using temporary protection such as hoof boots for short-term use. [19]
Natural hoof care is the practice of keeping horses so that their hooves are worn down naturally, or trimmed to emulate natural wear, so they do not suffer overgrowth, splitting and other disorders. [1] Horseshoes are not used, but domesticated horses may still require trimming, exercise and other measures to maintain a natural shape and degree ...
If not worn down enough by use, such as in the dairy industry, hooves may need to be trimmed. However, too much wear can result in damage of the hooves, and for this reason, horseshoes and oxshoes are used by animals that routinely walk on hard surfaces and carry heavy weight. [9]
"Geriatric horses, in particular, might need extra calories or a blanket to help them through winter," says Dr. Morton. Keep a close eye on their body condition, and consider offering extra fiber ...
Horse being fitted with a horseshoe. Minimal connectedness among farriers, scientists and equine veterinarians contributes to ambiguity among practitioners. [3] In addition, many of the current procedures in this area are based on personal opinion and traditional practices rather than factual information based on clinical research.
The first literary mention of nailed horseshoes is found within Ekkehard's Waltharius, [3] written c. 920 AD. The practice of shoeing horses in Europe likely originated in Western Europe, where they had more need due to the way the climate affected horses' hooves, before spreading eastward and northward by 1000 AD.
In the winter, horses grow a heavy hair coat to keep warm and usually stay warm if well-fed and allowed access to shelter. But if kept artificially clipped for show, or if under stress from age, sickness or injury, a horse blanket may need to be added to protect the horse from cold weather. In the summer, access to shade is well-advised.
A hoof boot is a device made primarily of polyurethane and is designed to cover the hooves of a horse as an alternative to, and occasionally in addition to, horseshoes. Hoof boots can also be used as a protective device when the animal has a hoof injury that requires protection of the sole of the hoof, or to aid in the application of medication.