ribbons
Well-Known Member
I am calling them unshod as they are not ridden so I'm guessing barefoot is the wrong term.
I have followed the bare foot threads with much interest and some amusement. I am interested in opinions from the likes of Oberon and cptrayes as they appear to be very knowledgable in this subject.
I have several brood mares, including two TB's. All except one of the TB have super feet with no problems whatsoever. She however is very sensitive. When shod and in ridden work if she lost a shoe her behaviour said she had broken a leg at the very least.
So, I would appreciate any helpful views on what her diet should be in order to support her hoof health and provide everything she needs during pregnancy and lactation.
All mares are on very good grazing (even in winter it's never poor) with
the addition of haylage and hard feed at appropriate times of pregnancy and feeding foal. All other mares are fine, and indeed this one is in excellent condition and produces strong healthy foals, just always very footy on any surface other than grass.
I have read much on this forum regarding barefoot diet, but since the broodmare has specific dietary requirements and I've never seen the subject discussed, I thought I would ask. If I can do anything to help the old birds comfort I would be delighted. Any suggestions welcomed.
I have followed the bare foot threads with much interest and some amusement. I am interested in opinions from the likes of Oberon and cptrayes as they appear to be very knowledgable in this subject.
I have several brood mares, including two TB's. All except one of the TB have super feet with no problems whatsoever. She however is very sensitive. When shod and in ridden work if she lost a shoe her behaviour said she had broken a leg at the very least.
So, I would appreciate any helpful views on what her diet should be in order to support her hoof health and provide everything she needs during pregnancy and lactation.
All mares are on very good grazing (even in winter it's never poor) with
the addition of haylage and hard feed at appropriate times of pregnancy and feeding foal. All other mares are fine, and indeed this one is in excellent condition and produces strong healthy foals, just always very footy on any surface other than grass.
I have read much on this forum regarding barefoot diet, but since the broodmare has specific dietary requirements and I've never seen the subject discussed, I thought I would ask. If I can do anything to help the old birds comfort I would be delighted. Any suggestions welcomed.