advice re hoof quality wanted pls.

[Vicki1986]

My mares hooves have always been really really good. no cracks nothing. Recently she had a big chunk that cracked off and she now often has small cracks around where the show goes on, like her hoof is dry or something? My farrier said the change in climate isnt helping, one minute moist then dry.

I know kevin bacon hoof dressing is meant to be good so going to put some of that on, but wondered if anyone could recommend a supplement to help the hoof quality? In 2 years shes never had a single crack in them and now although only very small she has had several in the last 2-3 months.

 

[brightmount]

Yes you're right, Kevin Bacon is great. I use the liquid hoof dressing that comes in a tin with a brush in the lid, and I apply it most days. As far as supplements go, I don't think you can do better than Formula 4 Feet. I buy the big sack from Prequestrian on ebay, which is the best deal I have found. I think Equestrian Clearance also sell it for a good price if you're ordering anything else from them, otherwise the postage they charge wipes out the saving.

I found these two products have made a huge difference to my horse's feet.

 

[Apercrumbie]

The Kevin Bacon hoof supplement worked wonders for my old mare but it is very expensive. You might want to try cornucressin for fast, healthy growth to help give her a kick start but just keep the wall moist and the cracks should go.

 

[lachlanandmarcus]

I fed Farriers formula but found that Dengie Healthy Hooves actually improved the hooves more! (and for a packet less ££) so it was bye bye to the gold leaf supplement and way hay with the healthy hooves for my barefoot girlie.

 

[a1b2c3]

Why don't you try cornucresine? (sp?)

 

[K27]

As you say it may be the weather one minute is raining then its dry and freezing cold!, if its only very small cosmetic cracks, they will probably sort themselves out by the time your mare has been reshod a few times. The foot supplements take at least a few months of feeding to see any results/changes and if her feet are already growing at a good rate anyway if it were one of mine I'd save my money!.

Keratex hoof gel is supposed to be good for winter use/wet weather conditions as it allows the foot to breathe but acts as a barrier- your Farrier will be the best person to advise you.

 

[Drummer]

Healthy Hooves and Topspec are great, D is probably od'ing on biotin!

 

[Vicki1986]

As i'm already a fan of Dengie products think i will look into switching from good doer to healthy hooves - thanks didnt think of that just automatically thought about a supplement. Prefer to keep things simple.

 

[Christmas Crumpet]

I use Kevin Bacon hoof suppliment which is about £39 for 60 days supply. I also use Kevin Bacon hoof formula (the one with the tar in) about 4/5 times a week. His feet have improved dramatically since we got him in May. It does take time and you do have to try different things because suppliments that work for one horse don't necessarily work for others.

I am currently trying out black sunflower seeds after some positive feedback about them. The fact that a 25kg bag costs £13 might have something to do with it!!!