would love your opinion, shammy

[jumper77]

Could it be possible that something on or in my farm is causing abcesses? I have lived here for 10 years, and I have had more trouble with reoccurring abcesses here than I ever have anywhere else. Multiple horses, horses that never had problems before, both barefoot, shod, etc. I have one pasture that stays kind of soggy all the time, but horses turned out in my other (drier) pasture also seem to have problems. Could standing around in squishy muck have anything to do with it? (I live in Louisiana, so squishy muck is kind of a constant thing here.) I have considered buying stock in Epsom salt and duct tape. Do you think it's just a weird coincidence that I'm having this trouble or could my property really be causing these problems? I have read lots of your posts and really respect your opinion. It seems you know just about everything, and I figure if anyone knows, it would be you. Would really appreciate your input.

[Shammy Davis]

Jumper 77: No, I don't think it is a happenstance that you have a problem with absesses, seedy toe, etc. There are areas on my farm that constantly stay wet because a river passes directly by us and our summer season is particularly humid. Sound familiar? You need to find a way to protect their feet during particularly damp periods. I have found that thoroughbreds, particularly OTTBs, are ripe for this problem. I use boots, alternating 24 hours on, then 8 hours off. The 8 hours is to allow air to the hoof. The Davis Boot is good. I also use the MAC Boot. To toughen the soles, I apply Venice Turpentine. Rather than soaking the hooves in ES, I apply a infant diaper soaked with ES, then wrapped and secured with duct tape like a bootie. Then I insert it in the DAVIS or MAC boot and let it do its magic. You might want to consider purchasing a size larger boot when using this method. Be patient. Walk your unshod horse on hard services for 30 minutes a day to help toughen the soles and wear down the wall. Importantly, with those horses that are more suseptible than others, take the shoes off. As I stated before, previously shod horses tend to be more prone to the problem. I know of no farrier that has not struck an errant nail or cut away too much heel or sole. Besides, horses don't need shoes to be athletic or healthy. Applied wrong, they provide for chronic hoof problems that last years. One other point, given the choice between an overly dry area and overly wet area, wet is better. Although you are struggling at this time, hooves need moisture for good health and strength. Be patient and attentive and given a couple of months you will see progress.

[jumper77]

I knew I'd get a great answer. You've given me a lot to work with-- thank you so much!

[Shammy Davis]

Jumper77: You are very welcome.