Maintaining your horses’ hooves may feel like a daunting task, especially when you are up against ever changing weather conditions. But keeping hooves in tip-top condition doesn’t have to be complex, so long as it is consistent. This step-by-step guide is practical and straightforward.

Inside out: Providing the right nutrition

UK soils can be low in key minerals, so even if your horse is out at grass and has access to good quality hard feed and forage, supplements can help to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need to maintain hoof health all year round.

Our Better 4 Hooves Supplement is a natural, science-backed supplement that has been created by industry professionals. It supports strong, resilient hoof horn by providing optimal levels of key vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and amino acids. It’s an ideal all-round supplement for part of a daily hoof care routine. 

Daily inspection

Inspecting the hooves can help you to monitor hoof health, structure and function before issues arise. You can check the frog for firmness, look to see if there are any cracks, chips or flares in the hoof wall, feel for heat and signs of abscesses and watch your horse moving to make sure they are comfortable.

Maintaining hoof hygiene

Daily picking out of feet helps to keep feet clear of debris that traps moisture and bacteria. This is particularly important for the prevention of thrush. Daily cleaning will naturally enable you to inspect the hooves too. 

You may wish to use a topical hoof product such as Better 4 Hooves Care & Shine – Suitable for year-round use, this blend of oils nourishes, protects and enhances hoof condition in all seasons.

Trimming and Shoeing

Each horse will need a slightly different trimming and shoeing schedule based on their workload, nutrition and environment. Hooves grow at roughly a quarter of an inch per month and delays in maintenance can lead to poor hoof balance and joint stress. Your farrier will be the best placed to help you set a schedule that is best for your horse.

Seasonal adjustments

Seasonal changes can influence hoof health and therefore your routine requirements. Wet conditions increase infection risk, and dry conditions mean more concerns for cracking. The good news is that topical products can help to strengthen hoof management and reduce the probability of issues.

Better 4 Hooves Healthy Hoof Dressing – Perfect for use during dry summer conditions or hard ground, this dressing forms a protective, breathable barrier that locks in essential moisture and protects from mud and bacteria.

These simple steps can help you build a lasting routine that contributes to your horse’s health and wellbeing.

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