Managing/Improving thin, flat soles

[Jinx94]

Hi all,

Looking for some advice as Tris is struggling this winter. I've never had issues before, but he's really struggling on the stones at the moment and has had some bruises in his hinds.

I've got a solution of iodine and eucalyptus oil to apply to his soles to help him a bit but am aware that it isn't going to fix the situation. He's on ad lib hay and is now getting a cup of micronised linseed in some soaked grass nuts.

I'm looking at different balancers and thinking that the pro earth pro balance might be a good addition.

What else can I do? Anything?

Any recommendations for workload/type of work?

He will have shoes on if absolutely necessary.

 

[HappyHollyDays]

Try Hoof Armour as he is barefoot. Supplements from Forage Plus or Equimins are fantastic but don’t expect miracles overnight.

 

[welshpony216]

cavolo (I am not sure how to spell it) hoof boots worked miracle's with my pony.

 

[ycbm]

If you haven't tested him for Cushings and this foot sensitivity is newish, then I would.

The Pro Earth is a good idea.

If you shoe, I would watch his pulses like a hawk. An increase in sensitivity in a horse who has been happy barefoot for years is either because something has changed or gone wrong. If it's that his system is out of kilter in some way, then shoeing can prevent a warning of an impending critical laminitis attack.
.

 

[Nudibranch]

Pro balance is good but even that won't fix the issue on its own. You also need to add salt, even if they have access to a lick. However for some horses diet alone just isn't enough. I'd boot (something low profile like Scoots) for the time being and see how he goes. X rays are very useful if you have a friendly vet who can do them with a mobile machine. At least you have a good idea of what's going on inside the hoof and can act accordingly.