The Importance of Regular Hoof Care to Prevent Problems in Horses

A horse's hooves play a crucial role in its overall health and well-being. Regular hoof care helps prevent many health problems and ensures optimal performance. This article explores the importance of regular hoof care, the signs to watch for, and recommended products for maintaining healthy hooves.

Anatomy of the Horse's Foot

To properly care for your horse's hooves, it's essential to understand the different anatomical parts and the tissues that compose them. The main parts of a horse's hoof include:

• The wall : The external part of the hoof.
• The sole : The lower part of the hoof, in contact with the ground.
• The fork : A V-shaped structure located in the center of the sole.
• The bulbs : The rear part of the hoof, under the heels.
• The periople : Protective layer located just above the wall.

The Importance of Foot Observation

Regular hoof inspection is crucial for detecting any abnormalities. It is important not only to examine the sole but also to monitor the periople and bulbs of the heel. The periople protects the hoof wall and must be monitored to prevent cracks and infections. The periople, the area just above the hoof wall, plays a crucial role in protecting this delicate region where keratinocytes and fibroblasts are formed. A healthy periople is therefore essential for the growth and maintenance of strong, healthy hooves. Keratinocytes and fibroblasts are essential cells for hoof health. These cells are formed primarily in the periople. Keratinocytes produce keratin, a key structural protein that makes up the hoof wall, giving it hardness and strength. Fibroblasts, on the other hand, produce collagen and other components of the extracellular matrix, which are crucial for the structure and strength of hoof tissues.

The bulbs, meanwhile, are often the starting point for deep foot infections and must be kept healthy.

Recommended Care for Hooves

To ensure strong and healthy hooves, here are some tips:

1. Regular Observation: Examine your horse's hooves at least once a week. Look for signs of cracks, infections, or other abnormalities.
2. Using Ozonated Oil : Apply OZ ONE MUD GUARD to the bulbs and periople once or twice a week to prevent infections. This oil is combined with sweet almond oil to strengthen hoof growth.
3. Sole and Frog Care : Use Sole and Frog Care 067 , based on chestnut tannins and cider vinegar, to care for soles and frogs. These astringent components tighten and strengthen the tissues, thus ensuring better protection.

Importance of Regular Trimming

Regular hoof trimming is essential for maintaining good balance and preventing deformities. A professional farrier or podiatrist should perform the trimming every six weeks. Trimming also helps prevent the accumulation of debris and dirt that can lead to infections.

Serious Foot Conditions

Foot problems can have serious consequences for a horse's health and performance. Some of the most common conditions include:

• Laminitis : Painful inflammation of the internal tissues of the foot.
• Abscesses : Painful infections often caused by trapped debris.
• Thrush : Bacterial infection of the frog, often due to moist conditions.

Conclusion

Regular hoof care is essential for the health and well-being of horses. By carefully observing the hooves, using appropriate care products such as ozonated oil and product 067 for soles and frogs, and performing regular trimming, you can prevent many problems and keep your horses healthy. Incorporate these practices into your care routine to ensure strong and healthy hooves for your equine companions.

Recommended Products

• Ozone Mud Guard : To prevent infections of the bulbs of the heels and strengthen hoof growth. Use once or twice a week.
• Sole and Frog Care : Based on chestnut tannins and cider vinegar, for the care of soles and frogs, apply twice a week.

By following these tips, you will contribute to the health of your horses' hooves, ensuring their comfort and performance.