Equine Hoof Care

At Redtail Equine Veterinary Service, we know that hoof care is just as important as equine internal medicine. That's why our team provides care for horses all over Parker, Denver, Elizabeth, Kiowa, and Castle Rock. Here's what you should know before you have an equine vet appointment for hoof treatment.

The Importance of Equine Hoof Care

Regular hoof care is essential for the well-being of a horse. Poorly maintained or diseased hooves can cause severe distress and even render the animal lame. Furthermore, weak or damaged feet may make a horse more susceptible to falls and other traumatic injuries.  Your farrier and your veterinarian should work as a team tTo safeguard your equine companion's health., have their hooves inspected by a veterinarian regularly.

Common Hoof Care Issues

The hoof of a horse is an outgrowth of hard tissue that works as a form of natural "shoe." This protective covering allows the animal to walk on rough terrain without experiencing any injuries. The hoof connects to the phalanx bones in the foot through a layer known as the lamina. When the lamina gets weakened or hurt, the connection between the hoof and the foot's coffin bone can be hampered. This is called laminitis. Laminitis is commonly caused by insulin dysregulation, overworking on hard ground, nutritional deficiencies, obesity, infection, or Cushing's disease.

Hoof infection is also common. Horses can experience thrush and bacterial infections that impact their hooves. If your horse has unclean or muddy hooves, he or she may be more likely to receive a diagnosis of infection. Repeated infections can lead to more severe issues.

Visit an Equine Vet for Hoof Care

Redtail Equine Veterinary Service provides equine hoof care, equine internal medicine, and more. Our team offers assistance for horses and their owners in Parker, Denver, Elizabeth, Castle Rock, and Kiowa. Call our office to discuss your horse's hoof care today.