The warmer months in the UK can bring a unique set of challenges for equine hoof health, from dry, hard ground to sudden downpours and everything in between. But fear not, GS Equestrian & Country is here with your essential guide to keeping those hooves in tip-top condition all summer long, featuring some fantastic products available right on our website!
What to Watch Out For
Our unpredictable British summer weather means hooves can go from rock-hard and brittle to soft and soggy in a matter of days. This constant fluctuation can lead to:
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Cracks and Chips: Dry conditions can cause hooves to lose moisture, leading to brittleness, cracks, and chips, especially around the hoof wall. These can be painful and lead to more serious issues if left untreated.
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Thrush: While often associated with wet, muddy conditions, thrush can still be a problem in summer, particularly if your horse is standing in damp areas around water troughs or in un-mucked stables.
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Abscesses: Puncture wounds from stones or debris on hard ground can lead to painful abscesses.
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Lost Shoes: The expansion and contraction of the hoof due to moisture changes can cause shoes to loosen and be pulled off.
Your Essential Summer Hoof Care Routine
A proactive approach is key to healthy hooves. Here's what we recommend:
Daily Cleaning and Inspection: This is non-negotiable! After every ride or turnout, thoroughly pick out your horse's hooves using a reliable hoof pick. This removes trapped dirt, stones, and debris, and allows you to spot any early signs of problems like cracks, bruising, or thrush.
- Check out our range of hoof picks, from the Shires Ezi-Groom Folding Hoof Pick for convenience to the Hy Sport Active Hoof Pick for a comfortable grip. A good hoof brush like the HySHINE Pro Groom Hoof Brush will also help dislodge stubborn dirt.
Moisturise and Condition: Just like our skin, hooves need moisture to stay flexible. In dry weather, apply a quality hoof conditioner or oil to prevent them from becoming brittle and cracking.
- For locking in moisture, consider Leovet Hoof Lab Hoof Oil or Lincoln Intensive Hoof Moisturiser. If your horse's hooves are particularly prone to dryness and cracking, Keratex Hoof Moisturiser is a popular choice to nourish and protect.
Protect and Strengthen: For an extra layer of defence against the elements and to strengthen the hoof, consider barrier creams or hardening agents.
- Carr & Day & Martin Cornucrescine Daily Hoof Barrier creates a protective layer, while Shires EZI-GROOM Hoof Hardener can help improve hoof strength. For general everyday care, a classic like Lincoln Classic Hoof Oil provides excellent conditioning.
Targeted Treatments: If you notice any signs of thrush or minor hoof damage, don't delay in treating it. Early intervention can prevent bigger problems.
- For thrush, Leovet Frogade with Brush is an effective solution. For minor cracks or splits, Keratex Hoof Putty can help with healing and protection.
Regular Farrier Visits: This is paramount! Your farrier is your best friend when it comes to hoof health. Regular trimming and shoeing (every 4-6 weeks for shod horses, 6-10 weeks for unshod) ensures proper balance and addresses any issues before they escalate. Communicate any concerns you have about your horse's hooves to them.
- Manage Environment: While you can't control the weather, you can manage your horse's environment. Provide access to shaded or softer areas if your pastures become excessively hard. Ensure stables are regularly mucked out to prevent prolonged exposure to wet and dirty conditions.
By incorporating these simple yet effective steps into your summer horse care routine, you can help ensure your horse's hooves remain strong, healthy, and ready for all your summer adventures.
Shop our full range of Hoof Care products today and give your horse the gift of happy hooves, as they say; no hoof, no horse!
