Transitioning a Horse to No Shoes - Different Terrains/Hoof Boot

sjp1

sjp1

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Mine was diagnosed with Navicular after x rays and nerve blocks about four months ago. We walk out in hand with hoof boots and pads for about 5 miles each trip around 4/5 times a week.

How much did you all walk your horses with lameness issues when shod without any boots at all and for how long? Am thinking I should start taking boots off for about 10 minutes every trip out and increasing it?

He is happy with his boots and pads and is sound at walk with them and the odd bit where we have to trot/run to avoid holding cars up on narrow lanes and in the field trotting with no boots - big relief - he was lame even in the field with shoes when trotting.

Not keen on gravel or stones though with no boots which is of course understandable.
 
Hi sjp1!

Definitely worth doing some handwalking out of the boots. Remember if his soles are thin stones will hurt, the best way to start him is on a smooth surface like tarmac or concrete building up to rougher terrains ... he will tell you if he is struggling.
Have you looked at diet to remove starches and sugars? This is the most important thing when transitioning. Also alfalfa can make some horses footy. If you have any footiness issues (non nav related) definitely worth looking harder at diet :)

Good luck!
 
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