#hoof wall

[er-cryptid]

Laminitis in Horses

-- inflammation of the lamina of the hoof

-- common

-- potentially devastating

-- affects all members of the equine family

-- a breakdown of the bond between the hoof wall and distal phalanx

-- the hoof wall-coffin bone is vulnerable to many diseases

-- many causes and contributing factors

[barefoothooves]

Had to stop in the middle of a trim to show y'all this. The back of the foot is a bit weak from our wet weather, but would you look at the wall quality on this (wait for it.......) THOROUGHBRED mare. Absolutely beautiful pigmented- to- unpigmented ratio and sound to boot. Second image just shows the bottom after it was shaped to the proper balance before addressing the top.

[barefoothooves]

Hoof wall under the microscope.

[barefoothooves]

Here are my cool close up hoof wall pics. These were taken off a 10 year old paint horse and will also be featured in another post :)

[equine-101]

Seedy Toe (Hollow Wall)

Seedy toe is a condition of the hoof wall in the toe region, characterized by changes in or loss of the tissue that makes up the horn. It is most often a consequence of mild, longterm laminitis. The outer surface of the wall appears sound, but the inner surface of the wall is mealy, and there may be a cavity due to loss of horn substance. Tapping on the outside of the wall at the toe produces a hollow sound over the affected portion. The disease may affect only a small area or nearly the entire width of the wall at the toe. Lameness is infrequent but may occur if infection or an abscess is also present.

The outlook for recovery is usually good. The diseased portion of the hoof wall should be cleaned and packed with juniper tar and oakum. In the absence of lameness, shoeing and work can continue. If the condition is extensive, the outer wall may need to be removed over the affected area.