Posted by Rick Burten on August 07, 2003 at 19:34:00:
In Reply to: Re: Shoeing the Barrel Horses with Advanced DJD posted by Gary on August 07, 2003 at 18:31:19:
: : Hello,
: : I am seeking different advice on how a barrel horse with advanced DJD in both hocks should be shod on the hinds. This horse is 6 and really reaches and drives with his hind end naturally, so overreaching is very common.
: : How should one go about shoeing him to prevent the over reaching, yet give him good support, and the best shoes for traction without having to much torq on the hocks?
: : Any input would be greatly appreciated!
: I shoe horses like that with a regular plate, square the toes and extend the heels. Just a qt. inch of shoe behind can relieve alot of stress on the hocks! Good Luck! Gary
Sometimes, a rockered toe is beneficial, along with rolling the edges of the shoe on the branches. As Gary said, short extensions are often beneficial.
That said, the real question is, since your horse has advanced DJD, why is he still being used as a barrel racer?
How was the DJD diagnosed? I ask because usually, a horse with DJD in the hocks will not drive hard off the hocks, nor will he reach up and under. Instead, he will do what ever he can to avoid doing anything that causes pain or increases pain in that area.
Also, are you not concerned that this horse has these kinds of arthritic changes as a six year old? And don't you wonder what caused them in one so young and what that bodes for his future?
Rick