January 15, 2009
Hello Again!
If your horse has healthy hooves, you may want to pull her shoes during the winter. This will give the hooves time to thicken and increase circulation. But remember that although hooves don't grow as fast in winter as they do in summer, you'll still need to keep up with regular hoof trimming.
If you keep your horse shod in winter, you may want to add pads under the horse's shoes to reduce the risk of sole bruises caused by frozen ground. There are a variety of options available and most will prevent snow buildup under the hoof.
You can also add traction to shoes by applying borium to the heel of the shoe. Studs or ice nails can also be driven into the shoe.
Most experts suggest that you avoid snowshoes for horses. Snow can build up under the foot and cause a hazard to horse and rider.
Tip Of The Day:
We'd like to recommend a great new book for horse lovers! Feng Shui for Horses
is written by our friend Jane Li Fox. It's an unusual yet practical guide for creating a lasting, more intimate relationship with your horse.
Don't forget to stop by our Amazon store for the best gifts for horse lovers!
Happy riding!
The Practical Horsekeepers
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