Protecting your horse's hooves from heavy rain, mud, and bacteria? How to keep your horse's hooves healthy and prevent thrush, abscesses, and other hoof diseases? This technique comes from the United Kingdom, which experiences very wet winters, and is ideal for keeping your horse's hooves in good condition.
During heavy rainfall, water and mud accumulate and can cause hoof problems in your horse. How can you protect your horse's hooves from mud? I'll explain an easy and simple protocol that takes just a few minutes.
Video:
https://youtube.com/shorts/TKOA1iF0mac?feature=share
I use the White Pony Winter Healthy Hoof Care Kit, which contains:
A PLANT-BASED CLEANSING SPRAY FOR HORSES' FEET & HOOF: a cleansing, purifying, and antibacterial plant-based spray for horses' feet and hooves, made with lavender hydrosol, Four Thieves Vinegar, and purifying and antibacterial essential oils.
A POT OF PROTECTIVE & PURIFYING HOOT PASTE: creates a water- and oil-free antibacterial shield that adheres perfectly to sensitive areas and doesn't trap bacteria. Made with white clay, honey, and zinc. Smooth, water- and oil-free paste.
Procedure: Thoroughly clean the hooves and dry them as much as possible. Use the spray on the entire hoof area and any gaps, brushing vigorously. Take a small amount of hoof paste and form a small roll. Apply the hoof balls to the central sulci and push them in with a hoof pick if necessary.
The hoof paste doesn't contain water and therefore won't feed bacteria. Its sticky texture also allows it to last for several days, unlike water-based clay treatments that disappear in minutes in the mud. It truly protects the cavities of your horse's hoof without trapping and feeding bacteria.
Repeat the application on each hoof: it takes 5 minutes to keep your horse's hooves healthy.
Perform the treatment one to three times a week depending on the fragility of your horse's hoof (soft frog?) and the amount of mud on your property.
Of course, don't forget to also thoroughly clean your horse's living area of manure to limit the proliferation of bacteria.
Winter Hoof Care Kit:
https://www.poneyblanc.fr/fr/kit-entretien-des-pieds