Dealing with transition to barefoot :(

stacie21

stacie21

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Well I made the decision to go barefoot 6 weeks ago and he was fine bit footy on stones but on the whole fine now he gone a bit footy exept on softer surfaces think its because the ground been like concrete everyone's answer is well you should put shoe back on as if I'm being cruel how can I help him over this period I need reassurance that we can get through it
 
Ditto boots and pads. For weak unhealthy feet they can be a lifesaver when you're getting over the early transition phase.

Also maybe take another look at diet to see if there's anything you can improve on.
 
I don't think it's unusual for them to be fine to start and then go footy a few weeks in- mine did 6 weeks down the line and we spent the next 2-3 months in boots and he gradually improved. I think it is in part due to wear and in part due to the blood flow increasing to the foot etc while it gets used to no shoes. Importantly don't worry too much!
 
Another one to say don't worry - I was in the same position a year ago and the frst proper rain & she immediately improved. It's worth the wait I promise, such a happier horse now (compared to being shod).
 
Im not very experienced at this, my boy is nearly 10 weeks bare. He has been very comfortable most of the time but a little scratchy today and he was grinding his teeth a little when riding in walk. I actually think it was because the grass is very high in sugars right now. September is a risky time with grass and after such warm weather then the recent rainfall. It could just be down to this as rich grass causes footiness. Boots and pads will help you through and I think in a week or two grass will die down and this will help a lot. Dont listen to people about putting shoes on just yet. Its a long road, but its worth giving a proper try. Usually sore footedness is diet related or stimulation related. All can be overcome and I do agree there are setbacks along the way. Try not to worry too much, it will all come good. 6 weeks is not very long at all!
 
Thanks guys its so nice to hear that it's normal and not to worry he Is not that bad but will use the boots and pads I am positive I am going to stick with it it's just hard on a yard that look at you like you are the monster
 
I took my horses shoes off 13 weeks ago, she was fine at first then we hit a footy stage after about 7/8 weeks. She had 3 weeks off while I was on holiday and came back into work last week, she is great on the yard, in the field and school but has been footy when ridden on gravel and also footy the next day so I have bought her some boots. I know how you feel with everyone looking and thinking you are a monster, they all do on my yard but I am determined to give it a decent amount of time. My other horse came to me barefoot although I don't think it was a conscious decision, and he's been fabulous for the 2 years we've had him so I see no reason why I can't try it with my other horse. Keep strong and good luck xxx
 
stacie21 said:
Thanks guys its so nice to hear that it's normal and not to worry he Is not that bad but will use the boots and pads I am positive I am going to stick with it it's just hard on a yard that look at you like you are the monster
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It will pass, then people will be looking at your horses feet and remarking on how good they look and how well your horse moves :)
 
Lol, stacie, join the club! The looks I get walking my funny little barefoot horse around the yard!! But now, people are starting to show real interest because he is sound and his feet look amazing! They have stopped breaking and chipping and they have so much more support. Its funny, the change in people from literally laughing at me to start with! Seriously though, I know how hard it is to go out on a limb and how easy it would be to give in and put the shoes on. Just remember you are doing a remarkable thing for your horses longterm wellbeing and never underestimate how uncomfortable some horses are in their shoes. Well done and keep going we are all here for you to sound off too!
 
jessieblue said:
Lol, stacie, join the club! The looks I get walking my funny little barefoot horse around the yard!! But now, people are starting to show real interest because he is sound and his feet look amazing! They have stopped breaking and chipping and they have so much more support. Its funny, the change in people from literally laughing at me to start with! Seriously though, I know how hard it is to go out on a limb and how easy it would be to give in and put the shoes on. Just remember you are doing a remarkable thing for your horses longterm wellbeing and never underestimate how uncomfortable some horses are in their shoes. Well done and keep going we are all here for you to sound off too!
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Great post - well done :) sometimes the hardest bit is dealing with other people :)
 
Boots and pads.

just tough this one out. But also think about trimming - often after transition it's best to leave well enough alone - last thing they need is someone touching their soles and frogs and taking away wall.
 
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