Hoof care for horses in the pasture: preventing pathologies while respecting their lifestyle

Introduction

Hoof care for horses living out in the pasture often raises questions, especially when they are wading through wet terrain day and night. However, contrary to popular belief, a horse that walks daily in natural conditions maintains better foot health than a horse confined to a stall, even a clean one. This article explains why humidity is not always an enemy and how to adopt an effective preventive routine. For a comprehensive approach, consult our guide to preventing hoof problems.

Understanding the Risks of Humidity

• Thrush: prolonged exposure weakens tissues, allowing anaerobic bacteria to proliferate
• Sole weakening: excessive softening reduces protective capacity
• Infections of the heels and periople: entry points for deep infections compromising horn growth

Important: Despite these risks, the natural movement of a horse living outdoors is beneficial for its overall hoof health. The key is to adopt regular preventive care.

Preventive Protocol: Protecting the Entire Hoof Surface

Step 1: Soles and Frogs with OZONE HOOF CARE

OZONE HOOF CARE, enriched with chestnut tannins and apple cider vinegar, is the ideal solution to protect hooves exposed to humidity:

• Protective barrier: tannins quickly dry tissues while forming a protective layer against bacteria and fungi
• Immediate effect: dries instantly, the horse can return to the pasture immediately
• Tissue strengthening: visible improvement in solidity after 2-3 days of use
• Ozone action: powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties

Instructions: Clean sole and frog, apply with a brush, let dry. 2-3 times/week.

Step 2: Periople and Heels with OZONE MUD CARE

OZONE MUD CARE is the ideal treatment for these critical areas:

• Deep sanitization: eliminates bacteria before they penetrate tissues
• Stimulates regeneration: promotes keratinocyte production, strengthens periople and heels
• Durable barrier: two applications per week are sufficient
• Mud fever prevention: also protects against dermatophilosis

Instructions: Clean and dry the areas, apply a few drops, massage gently. 2-3 times/week.

Why Humidity Isn't Always the Enemy

What is truly detrimental is the lack of movement. A horse regularly walking on wet ground benefits from stimulated blood circulation (plantar pump), healthy horn growth, balanced natural wear, and strengthening of structures. In contrast, a confined and inactive horse can suffer from hoof problems even in the absence of humidity.

Hoof Care for Unshod Horses in Pasture

Barefoot horses benefit from better natural function but remain exposed to humidity-related pathologies. Good practices:

• Weekly inspection: soft or foul-smelling frog, softened sole, cracks, abnormal heat, signs of infection at the heels or periople
• Preventive routine: OZONE HOOF CARE 2-3 times/week on soles and frogs + OZONE MUD CARE 2-3 times/week on periople and heels + daily picking
• Varied environment: alternate hard ground (natural wear), soft ground (comfort), and dry areas (hoof drying)

Conclusion

Hoof care in the pasture relies on two pillars: prevention and natural movement. With OZONE HOOF CARE for soles and frogs, and OZONE MUD CARE for periople and heels, you effectively protect your horse's hooves against pathogens while respecting its natural lifestyle.