Posted by John Barney on July 06, 2004 at 12:11:28:
In Reply to: Re: abcess or quarter crack?? posted by Elisa on July 04, 2004 at 17:03:18:
: : : My 24 y.o QH developed a horizontal crack at the base of the coronary band (rear foot) which eventually opened up. My usual farrier said it was an abcess that blew and to leave it open. Then I noticed it seemed a bit bigger. I asked another farrier to take a look at it (he was trimming another horse that day) and he said it was a quarter crack and promptly shaved a chunk out of the hoof (more like sliced it) leaving an even bigger opening.
: : : My horse is barefoot and what I'd like to know is does he have a quarter crack, an abcess (and the 2nd farrier should have left it alone) or does a quarter crack develop from an abcess? Never had foot problems before but we have been riding on slightly rockier terrains. HELP!
: : Sounds like your regular farrier was right on the money. It sounds as though this was a vent line from an abcess. Quarter cracks, toe cracks, etc, are vertical not horizontal. It is conceivable that a quarter crack could develop from an abcess, but again, there would be a vertical crack.
: : The hoof wall avulsion in your case should grow down without any complications save when it gets close to the ground. At that time, the wall below it may just break loose and need to be trimmed off. Still should present no real problem.
: : You will have a better idea of whats going on after your next regular farrier visit. Be sure to be there so you can ask your questions, voice any concerns, and speak directly with the farrier.
: : Rick
: Thanks for the info, Rick. One more thing- do you think I need to shoe my horse or is barefoot still ok?
Rick is absolutely correct. Usually the abcess vent you describe would not require a shoe. However if you are riding on rockier terrain you run a risk of this happening again, to the same foot or others. Your regular farrier was on the money, explain where you take the horse and ask his advice. He can also see first hand the quality of the hoof, sole, etc.
JB