How could the hot days seen in July affect horses’ feet?

We are all too familiar with the old proverb “no foot, no horse” and it still couldn’t be truer today. Hoof health is indisputably important, as neglected hooves can lead to discomfort, pain, disfigurement and even lameness. But what effect has a dry summer on our equines’ hooves? The Saddlery Shop takes a look... 

Firstly, it is worth noting that a dry hoof is better than a wet hoof; excess moisture causes the bonds within the hooves’ molecular structures to weaken. It is said that hoof horn is strongest when it has a moisture content of around 25%; like our fingernails, which become flexible after a swim or a soak in the bath, hooves are strongest when dry.

There’s not much we can do about the dry weather of course, however certain management aspects can make its effects worse:

• Inactivity – a lack of exercise will compromise equine circulation and hoof integrity.
• A lack (or imbalance) of essential minerals and vitamins, and other key dietary requirements – hoof health starts from within.
• Poor shoeing or trimming – if these do not allow the hoof to function properly, environmental factors will be more influential.

What can we do about dry hooves?

1. Although opinion does vary on this matter, many farriers and trimmers believe it is inadvisable to completely drench horses’ feet with water for long periods, and that this is a dated school of thought. However, the simple act of bathing the horse in hot weather, when the water will trickle down and wet the hooves, or allowing the field water trough to overflow, so the horse stands in wet grass while he drinks, could be beneficial.
2. Avoid painted-on hoof products. Topical hoof products, with a few exceptions, generally do not improve hoof integrity and may compromise the ‘breathing’ function of the hoof. 
3. Assess the diet. A balanced diet is vital to the condition of the hooves, and ensuring the horse has a forage-based diet that is low in sugar and starch, with appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals, is key. Minerals often lacking in the equine diet that are key ingredients for hoof health are Biotin, methionine, zinc (provided with copper), and Magnesium Oxide; but you can also have too much of a good thing,  so it may be advisable to have your hay analysed for deficiencies, so you can ensure you provide everything your horse needs for healthy feet in all conditions.
4. Provide exercise to encourage circulation within the hoof. Mere turn out in a traditional field may not be enough – ideally the horse needs purposeful, regular activity. Creating a system of tracks instead of an easy-to-navigate square, to encourage maximum movement whilst foraging, is also an excellent way to increase everyday movement.
5. Many horse owners are now turning to barefoot hoof care as a long-term management regime. One benefit is that the hooves can expand and contract with the changing environmental conditions, without the restriction of shoes. Hoof boots with pads can be useful for the barefoot horse, for comfort and protection when transitioning from horse shoes, or for longer term use when the ground is particularly challenging.