Posted by Phil Armitage on February 13, 2003 at 14:10:03:
In Reply to: Re: Atrophied Frogs posted by Dale - 2R on February 12, 2003 at 17:01:16:
: : : In my travels yesterday, I came in contact with 3 horses I have never seen before. Two were part of a vet referral involving a navicular case with a specific shoeing package. The 2 non-NS horses to be left as found - barefoot.
: : : These 3 horses were found with "nonexistent" atrophied frogs and resulting malfunction showing in the feet. Being out on frozen ground and having no access to dirt to pack into the frog area these horses get no natural help.
: : : Short of a proper shoeing package what are others doing to help promote proper foot function. I have considered a stryofoam frog insert taped on, or possibly lily pads taped on, but feel it may not stay on.
: : : Any thoughts? Dale
: : How long are the heels? Long heels will contract the heels and atrophy the frog. Can you start trimming them down, maybe a little at a time every 4 to 6 weeks. Are these horses excercised at all?
: : Just a thought
: : Phil
: Hi Phil, The heels didn't show signs of contraction. M-L & A-P balance was off and I trimmed to the live sole and heels weren't excessively long. Both horses in question were thrushy and were treated as such.
: Dale
Thrush can be a sign of poor circulation in the feet, it sounds like these horses do move around alot, maybe because they are sore and they need to move more. Maybe they are to confined.
Phil