Hoof boots may look like an accessory for your horse, but they do serve a purpose. Some horse owners choose to have hoof boots on hand, while others may not. Let's look at what hoof boots are used for, and some reasons you may consider using them.
What are hoof boots?
Hoof boots offer protection to your horse's hooves from injuries. Injuries can be caused by walking on rough terrain such as hard rocky ground. Hoof boots can also be used for therapeutic purposes such as for horses suffering from laminitis or a sole bruise. There are many options for hoof boots on the market, so it is important that you choose the right one for your horse. If you don't know where to start, ask your farrier for advice and recommendations.
Some horse owners use hoof boots when going out on the trail, if they are riding on rough terrain, and if their horse is not shod. For horse owners that have barefoot horses, hoof boots are a great option for protection.
Does my horse need a hoof boot?
There are various things to consider when deciding if your horse needs a hoof boot. Is your horse barefoot? Is your horse going to be walking on rough terrain without shoes? Does your horse have thin soles or other hoof issues? These are all questions to consider when making a decision. As I mentioned earlier, it is important to ask your farrier for advice. Hoof boots can also come in handy for situations such as dealing with lamanitis, founder, sole bruises, and lower leg injuries.
Photo by Raquel Lynn of Horses and Heels
What style of hoof boot should I choose?
With so many hoof boots out on the market, it can become overwhelming when deciding which kind to choose. As for a brand of hoof boot, I highly recommend Cavallo Inc. hoof boots. My favorite Cavallo hoof boot is the Trek Boot. This boot is their most breathable boot option. Cavallo Inc. also has a regular boot that features leather, or bling boots that feature some bling for your horse. They have a variety of options for all sizes, from drafts to minis. Cavallo hoof boots are easy to use and also easy to clean! To put them on your horse, you simply undo the velcro, put it on your horse's hoof, and secure the velcro straps. To clean the boot, you can wipe it out or hose it off.
The Cavallo hoof boots offer excellent protection for the barefoot horse, aid in rehabilitation from injuries, absorbs shock, and promotes healthy hooves by allowing expansion and contraction with weight bearing. Cavallo hoof boots do not come with a hoof boot pad, so this gives you options on what kind of padding you would like for your horse. They have a wide variety of options such as a support, cushion, comfort, and gel pads.
The Do's and Don'ts when Using Hoof Boots
Using hoof boots are easy, but you want to ensure that you are using them in the correct way. When leaving a hoof boot on your horse for an extended period of time (such as in the pasture or when using it for therapeutic purposes), take the boot off everyday and examine the hoof. Leave the boot off your horse for a period of time to allow the hoof to breathe before putting the boot back on. Clean the hoof and boot to ensure that it is clean and dry. If there is extreme wet conditions, do not leave the hoof boot on your horse for an extended period of time. You want the hoof to be able to get all the oxygen it can, and you don't want too much moisture trapped in the boot. Boots are an aide to have for your horse, not in place of regular care and trimmings.
Some tips for using hoof boots:
Never put a hoof boot on a wet hoof, only a dry hoof.
Make sure the hoof is clean of dirt and debris before putting a hoof boot on.
Take the hoof boot off regularly to examine the hoof and allow it to breathe.
Watch this video to learn how Cavallo hoof boots help with sole bruises!
Hoof boots can be very handy to have in the barn, whether you need it for therapeautic purposes or going out on the trail. I highly recommend Cavallo hoof boots, and you can click here to get 20% off your purchase! Or enter CAVALLOGET20 at checkout for 20% off.
Disclosure: I am a part of the Cavallo Inc. Referral Program and I may make a commission at no extra cost to you.
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