Help with newly barefoot retired mare that's a bit sore?

GinaGem

GinaGem

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I've had my mares shoes taken off last week as i can't ride anymore and she's really sore on the stones around the yard on her hind feet (she's out 24/7 and free to wander the yard for shelter). I can't use hoof boots as i have a bad back so should i shut her in the field permently so she can't walk on the stones and just let her feet settle or should i be taking her off the grass durign the day etc? There's no way i can get her from the field to the yard without crossing the stones.

Also what is the best diet to help her feet?

Thanks :)
 
Just make sure you pick the stones out of her feet - she will get better in due course as her feet adjust to not having shoes. Just imagine you yourself taking your shoes off and walking barefoot - you would be very feely to start with but your feet would harden up after time.
 
Some people have been known to use old pieces of carpet on stony areas in such circumstances.

The first two weeks can be difficult if a horse has unhealthy hooves. You could leave her out another week and see how she is (if staying out suits her).
 
Thank you - yes i'm picking her feet out as much as poss to try and help her.

I'll see if i can find some old carpet - thats a good idea thanks.
 
Sirocco said:
Thank you - yes i'm picking her feet out as much as poss to try and help her.

I'll see if i can find some old carpet - thats a good idea thanks.
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It's not a bad idea to leave the mud in the hoof before you go on a challenging surface.

The mud packs into the hoof and creates a natural pad.

Obviously the risks of stones and thrush have to be weighed against that though :)
 
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