Neat feet

Excellent hoof care is a year-round concern but the winter months present their own problems. Richard Stephenson MRCVS explains the seasonal challenges afoot and how to stay one step ahead

- Richard Stephenson

HORSES have evolved over many millions of years to live in an incredibly diverse range of environments. However, all natural horse habitats have one thing in common open space.

Wild horses are found on plains, prairies and steps. They prefer to live in these locations for the ability to flee from predators, to scavenge for suitable grazing, find shelter and escape conditions of drought or flood. In contrast, domestic horses are most often kept in relatively confined areas without the option of moving on to dryer conditions.

In the UK we are well into winter and in many places, the ground is already water-logged. Many paddocks and horse pastures are likely churned up, leaving horses standing in mud. So, what is the effect of prolonged exposure to wet muddy ground on our horses' feet and how can we improve their welfare?

EFFECT ON THE HOOF

THE hoof wall is essentially waterproof. Hooves from horses living in varying climatic conditions, ranging from desert to waterlogged flood plains, have all been shown to have very similar water content of 29-30%. Experiments involving soaking horses' feet for two hours did not increase the hoof wall water content.

However, the same is not true of the sole. The sole is more porous and when soaked in water there is a significant increase in the degree of hydration. Standing in wet conditions makes it softer and more vulnerable to bruising and other injuries.

Although softer ground in the winter months can reduce concussion-related injuries, vets see increases in foot abscesses, thrush, bruising and mud fever.

REMOVING SHOES: A HELP OR A HINDRANCE?

IN the past, it was common practice to remove horses’ shoes during winter to “give the feet some rest” and to save money on farriers. This can be a false economy.