Horse's hoof is too dry, it is cracking, and there is a crack in the hoof.

It's the season, most of the requests and questions I receive concern horn that is too dry, cracking or splitting.

A horse's horn is primarily composed of specialized epidermal cells called keratinocytes. These keratinocytes produce a fibrous protein called keratin, which forms the major part of the horn's structure. Keratin gives the horn its strength, resilience, and ability to grow powerfully.

In addition to keratinocytes, other cell types are also found in the horse's hoof, including fibroblasts, melanocytes, and immune cells. Fibroblasts are responsible for producing and maintaining collagen and elastin fibers, which provide elasticity to the hoof. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, which gives the hoof its color and plays a role in protecting it from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Immune cells help defend the hoof against infections and diseases.

It is important to note that the cellular composition of the horn can vary slightly depending on the specific part of the horn, the age of the horse, and other factors. However, keratinocytes remain the primary cells responsible for horn formation in horses.

The growth of a horse's hoof horn is a continuous process that occurs throughout its life.

Hoof growth is stimulated by several factors. First and foremost, diet plays a crucial role. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients such as protein, minerals (especially zinc and copper), and vitamins (particularly biotin) promotes healthy hooves and optimal horn growth.

Regular exercise and blood circulation are also important. When a horse moves, its body weight puts pressure on its hooves, stimulating blood flow in the vessels at the base of the hoof. This blood flow delivers the nutrients necessary for hoof growth and renewal.

This pumping function works best on bare feet.

Furthermore, proper hoof care is essential to promote healthy horn growth. Regular trimming removes worn or damaged parts of the hoof horn, allowing for healthy new growth. Use your rasp regularly.

Massage the coronal ridge, the crown, with the ozonated oil. This zone, as indicated below, is the boundary between hair growth on the dermis and the area where keratinocytes and fibroblasts are produced. It is from this point that strong, downward hair growth can be ensured. The benefits of ozonated oil are twofold. Ozone is the best sanitizing agent available today and is recognized as such by the World Health Organization. It eliminates any fungal and microbial attacks from this delicate area. Furthermore, ozone stimulates tissue growth factors, resulting in strong hair growth.

Massage the crown with ozonated oil regularly throughout this period of extreme dryness and you can prevent cracks from developing.

Use Hoofstuff or Sanitizing Paste If you have very deep hairline cracks that need filling, the difference between the two products lies in their consistency. It's the same formula, but in Hoofstuff we add a plant fiber that allows it to form strands and fill deep cavities.

The anti-inflammatory role of chestnut tannins and the healing properties of honey and green clay will accelerate healing which must happen from the inside out.

It is important to note that every horse is different and the rate of hoof growth can vary from one individual to another. Some horses grow faster than others, while some may have health problems or nutritional deficiencies that affect the quality and growth of their hooves. In these cases, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian or farrier for advice specific to the horse's situation.