Stupid question... do shoes have to be taken off for hoof xrays?

[wench]

As per title... stupid I know. I am aware that an x-ray from underneath will be obscured by the shoe, but apart from that, do they need to come off?

 

[putasocinit]

Depends what is being xrayed, but the vet would be able to pull the shoe if needed and then wrap with a pad before farrier replaced it.

 

[Copperpot]

Mine had all 4 shoes off for recent x rays

 

[Izzwizz]

Never had any of my horse's shoes off for xrays, only MRI.

 

[cellie]

Ive Always had shoes off for xrays must work as same principle as our xrays a underwired bra would show up and shoes block some areas .

 

[Birker2020]

Depends on the area to be xrayed to be honest. if its coffin bone then it won't matter. If its lower in the foot then it could be detrimental.

 

[lizness]

Shouldn't matter for pedal bone rotation shots e.g. laminitis

 

[LadyRascasse]

My lad had xrays of his feet with his shoes on I would check with your vet and if needed I would get your farrier to take them off before hand. My experience of a vet taking shoes off was very painful and they removed half the foot with the shoe. (I wouldn't say every vet is the same but at least you know your farrier can take them off properly)

 

[philamena]

See OP, wasn't a stupid question at all Mine have always been done without shoes but they've always been xrays requested by insurance when taking out LoU. But the vet can take them off, i'd just provisionally book in farrier for asap afterwards so you can get them back on asap if so, esp if xrays are of fronts only for example.

 

[wench]

Thanks for the replies. X-rays are to see whats going on inside the foot. I guess if there is anything of interest, or needs a better view the vet will take the shoe off.

 

[Goldenstar]

It depends why you are xraying I often have new horses xrayed with shoes on as a guide to hoof balance for the farrier.

 

[wench]

Find any problems/check hoof balance!