Posted by M. W. Myers, D.V.M. on May 31, 2001 at 21:55:32:
In Reply to: Re: Plantation Pleasure Tennessee Walkers posted by Patty Stiller on May 28, 2001 at 22:24:40:
: : I have noticed that these horses are growing increasingly longer toes through the years. The rules call for a certain width and thickness of bar stock with a limited turn back and set no more than 1/4 inch ahead of the toe. I'm not certain of the exact measurements. However, it did strike me that the longer the toe of the horse was, the larger amount of metal and thus greater weight could be applied.
: : Also, if the toe is pushed to too great a length, the horse will either become heel sore or may develop some laminar tearing which will lead to a similar "soring" situation that caused the crack down on the "Big Lick" walkers many years ago.
: : Any one else noticed this phenomenon? I would be willing to bet the Walking Horse trainers are aware of it by now.
: : M. W. Myers, D.V.M.
: Dr Myers, though I have never shod waklkers so I am not totally familiar with the nuances, it seems to me that if they are doing what you describe to the plantation horse, there will be greater risk for lameness issues than on those who are stacked up...My thinking is because the plantation walkers will not have the benefit of the added support toward the rear that a big stack offers,the stack being extended farther back (under the fetlock/tendons) to 'balance'for the toe length. The plantation shoe, extended even a quarter inch ahead of the toe must add tremendous stress on the DDF-impar ligament intersection and the navicular..... Am I wrong in my thinking? Patty
They do allow some benefit of heel support as the shoe is allowed to extend to the heel bulbs. But they can easily negate this assist by extending the toe far beyond what we currently consider a pathological long toe-underrun heel syndrome. The "Big Lick" walkers actually have the benefit of better shoeing principles at this time.
M. W. Myers, D.V.M.