Would you??

[mrsk29]

Keep a horse barefoot after an abcess?

My boy has been barefoot from behind since aug and completely since dec, he was doing so well but then got an abcess in his front foot which is still being treated (4 weeks now!) vet advised I get shoes on fronts (backs are rock hard) his feet are brilliant for a tb and his fronts are much stronger than before and they have changed so much since having no shoes. The farrier said his feet are great too.

I really don't know what to do, his abcess was from a puncture wound. What would you all do?

 

[BlackRider]

TBH I'd have a chat with your farrier, and see what he thinks.

I've kept mine barefoot, and they have had an abscess or 2 over the years.

I'm contemplating putting fronts back on my mare, as she is thin soled, and at the new yard its a long walk on gravel to the field, which I think will be too much for her.

 

[be positive]

My laminitic pony had an abscess that took 4 months to fully clear, he was shod briefly during that time with heartbars under vets advice to help prevent rotation while he was putting all his weight on the good foot, they made him worse and were removed. He is still unshod and will remain that way as long as my farrier is happy and the pony remains sound.
I would take your farriers advice, he knows your horse, it can still get a puncture wound even if shod so I dont think putting shoes on is relevant.