Hooves Don't Fail Me Now

Imagine standing and walking around for days, if not weeks, with a jagged object in your shoe. Pretty painful right? Now imagine a horse, pony or donkey experiencing that pain and discomfort much worse since they are constantly on their feet (for the most part) while exercising or seeking food, water and shelter. One of the primary causes of this condition, which can lead to lameness, is referred to as equine abscess .

Abscesses are very common among our furry friends and are one of the leading causes of equine lameness which can potentially lead to further health problems and even Laminitis.

What causes abscesses? When bacteria are introduced into the sole of the hoof, or the white line, infection sets in which causes very painful inflammation. The bacteria can be introduced into the hoof via punctures wounds caused by nails, screws, rocks, poor quality hoof conformation and even Farrier horse shoe nails. Pastures with very wet or extremely dry conditions are where the majority of the puncture wounds occur. As the infection continues to grow, it becomes increasingly more painful as the infection attempts to push its way out via either the coronary band, frog or sole. Detection of lameness is easily recognizable. The equine will walk with a distinguishable limp, potentially lose appetite and thirst, and may even lay down to relieve the pressure on the hoof. Additionally, the equine’s caretaker will feel heat when they place their hand on the suspected hoof. Upon lifting and inspecting the sole of the hoof, it can be gently picked out and cleaned to search for a puncture wound. The wound may appear as either a small or large black hole and emit a very strong/foul smell caused by the buildup and excretion of puss.

How to treat abscesses? It is always best to consult with your veterinarian or Farrier first if abscesses are suspected or observed. However, there are some potential home remedies that have been proven to be effective. Please click on the following link for further guidance…https://youtu.be/FYDZy6GbbKY.

We hope this article is helpful to you and your equines. Please remember that the more we properly care for our equines, the happier and healthier they will be and the happier we will be.

The Louisiana Equine Council (LEC) strives to educate its members and keep them abreast of important equine related issues. If you are not currently a member and would like to join us, just click the JOIN NOW button on our website.

Author: Matthew Stefan, LEC Writer Volunteer

Winter Barn Rodents - Creating An Alternative Non-Toxic Poison Blend that really works!

Recently I ran across a farmer on You Tube with a recipe consisting of 50% honey muffin mix and 50% baking soda as an alternative to safely eradicating rodents from our barns and stables. We gave it a try. I can say, with in a few weeks, our problem was resolved. We ran across a few of the deceased rats laying around on the grounds in fact. The wonderful part about this alterative method is that it is non-toxic to other animals including prey animals who might discover the dead mice and rats and make a meal out of them. We placed quite a few of these containers in our barns and stables and around our garden area for cents on the dollar and we used old ice cream tubs. Click the link below for detailed instructions on creating this non-toxic method of rodent control that really does work!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBeySuYvdbY

FDA Recall - Top Of The Rockies Alfalfa Cubes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is cautioning horse owners not to feed Top of the Rockies alfalfa cubes with the date codes 111222, 111322, 111422, 111522, and 111622.

The FDA is aware of at least 98 horses in Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas who showed neurologic symptoms. At least 45 of these horses have died or were euthanized due to declining health. Since December 3, 15 horses have become acutely ill at a Quarter Horse breeding farm in Vermilion Parish County, Louisiana. Two horses died within 48 hours of onset of clinical signs. Ten horses were euthanized within the same time frame due to rapid decline.

Click the link below for more detailed information.

U.S. Food & Drug Administration