Spring brings new challenges for equine hoof care, demanding a keen eye and proactive measures to maintain healthy hooves. In this FREE eGuide, discover expert insights and techniques to help horses step into spring with confidence and soundness.
As warmer weather returns, so do conditions ripe for hoof ailments like thrush and white line disease. Moist environments, fresh pasture growth and seasonal nutritional changes all play a role in springtime hoof health. Whether your clients' horses are transitioning from winter turnout or preparing for an active riding season, this guide offers proven strategies to help farriers tackle these seasonal shifts.
The Importance of Spring Hoof Care
With longer days and shifting conditions, horses' hooves undergo changes that require regular attention. Learn to:
- Prevent and treat thrush with proper trimming and hygiene.
- Recognize the signs of white line disease and take corrective action.
- Adapt hoof-care routines to combat moisture-related issues.
- Support metabolic health to reduce the risk of laminitis flare-ups.
In “Caring for Horses with Acute Endocrinopathic Laminitis” by Eleanor Kellon, VMD, learn from a leading expert as she shares crucial knowledge on managing the complex condition of laminitis and improving equine welfare.
American Farriers Journal editor Jeff Cota provides insight into identifying thrush, trimming basics and treatment in “How to Prevent & Treat Thrush.”
Jessica Lash’s “Rethinking Equine White Line Disease" explains keratinolytic disease of the zona alba (KDZA), commonly known as white line disease, including tell-tale signs, understanding the subtypes, prevention and management.
AFJ is dedicated to helping hoof-care professionals understand the art and science of farriery. Our editors make it their job to collect the valuable knowledge and practices of leading farriers from around the world to help hoof-care professionals improve their footcare practices.
Get this eGuide for Free with a Free Account!
New members, click "Sign Up" for free account. Or, regular members click "Go In".
Expert Tips & Strategies
This eGuide delivers actionable advice to optimize spring hoof-care practices:
- Daily Hoof Care: Keep hooves clean and dry, and check for early signs of infection.
- Managing Moisture: Avoid prolonged exposure to wet conditions to reduce the risk of thrush and other hoof diseases.
- Nutritional Support: Balance diet and supplements to promote strong hoof growth and support overall metabolic health.
- Tackling Laminitis: Understand the role of insulin regulation in preventing and managing endocrinopathic laminitis.
Insights from Trusted Professionals
Benefit from the experience of equine experts like Dr. Eleanor Kellon, VMD, who provides a deep dive into managing acute endocrinopathic laminitis. Learn from seasoned hoof-care professionals, such as Hall of Fame farrier Mike Wildenstein and Scottish farrier Sarah Logie, and Hall of Fame veterinarians — including Amy Rucker of Midwest Equine in Missouri and Scott Fleming of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Kentucky — who offer practical advice for preventing common springtime hoof issues and maintaining hoof integrity.
A Go-To Resource All Season Long
Spring hoof care requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. This 20-page eGuide serves as a reliable companion, offering practical solutions to support healthy hooves all season long.
Ready to Enhance Your Spring Hoof-Care Expertise?
Download your FREE eGuide today and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to keep your clients' horses sound, healthy, and ready for the season ahead.
Yours for better hoof care,
What new insights did you gain from this eGuide? What jumped out at you?
Share your observations below.