Shoeing Isolated Horses

[FinkleyAlex]

My boy is stuck in an isolation block for the next 2/3 weeks with two ponies that have strangles. I will be getting the result of his first swab today to see if he too has/had strangles or whether he just had a mystery virus.

The thing is he was due to be shod about 2 weeks ago but was rushed into isolation. Hardly see YO as she doesn't really go into the isolation area for fear of passing it to other horses. His feet are getting quite long, shoes are still on but in a weeks time he's going to look like the beginnings of a rescue case.

Would it be irresponsible to get the farrier out? (of course I'd be explaining the situation) or do I leave his feet to grow untill he gets out of isolation. I don't want him lame as well as ill

 

[AmyMay]

Have you spoken to your Farrier - I'm sure he won't want to go anywhere near your horse at the moment.

I wouldn't worry, one overdue shoing won't do any harm I wouldn't have thought.

 

[Nailed]

A farrier will not have a problem going near your horse. You will obviously have to ask. but im sure he has had to deal with situations like this before and a bit of disinfectant does a good job. It may be an idea for you to get a cheep throw away boiler suit for you farrier so he is protected and some disinfected as not to pass it on.

One late shoeing may cause you horse trouble if his shoes pull off and take half of the hoof wall with it. Speak to your farrier. If worse comes to worse and he says he wont take them off ask your vet to come and remove them for you and pair his feet back. Vets can do that too!
Lou x

 

[TGM]

Have a word with your farrier. He might be able to do your horse as last call of the day, so he won't be in contact with any other horses immediately afterwards. Would be wise for him to wash his clothing once he gets home - main danger of infection comes from any nasal discharge which the horse might wipe on his clothing.

 

[Agent XXX999]

Might be wrong but I thought that Strangles is airbourne or passed on through mucus so therefore the horses on the yard have more chance of catching it if they come into close proximity to each other (and if there is direct contact with each other – ie they touch each other or you pass it on with your hands)
I think that you should call you’re your farrier and see – but he should be fine so long as he makes you the last call of the day and you provide him with some dettol. Hundreds of neddies get strangles every year and I am sure they are not all left unshod!

Your YO sounds a bit unhelpful!