In many of my columns I have suggested the use of hoof boots as an alternative to the traditional steel shoe. The advantages boots have over shoes are many, including:
They do not restrict natural hoof function
They eliminate the stress and trauma caused by constant nailing
No need to worry about throwing a shoe and the subsequent long walk home
Can be applied and removed easily without tools
For these reasons and more I have gained a greater respect for their role in designing a barefoot program, thus I am dedicating this month's column to this valuable tool. Much of this respect comes from their ability to aid the horse during the critical transition phase of shod to barefoot. Many times when a horse has been shod, the foot lacks appropriate concavity and has a weakened white line, both of which can be corrected in time, but does in some cases limit the horses usability. Occasionally, even a horse that has been barefoot will have some discomfort on gravel during the early stages of a natural hoofcare program. Most often, these horse had allot of flaring, which will effect both concavity and weaken the sole to wall junction. In both cases, boots can eliminate any discomfort and in some cases actually improve a horse's performance. An added benefit is that they are easily removed and allow you to continue conditioning your horse's feet, eventually decreasing your need to use a boot.
Beyond the transition phase, boots can be a wonderful relief to the owner who wants to leave their horse barefoot, but does not have the time or environment to condition their horse to the level needed to traverse gravel. Again, boot them when necessary and enjoy the benefits of a happy, healthy barefoot horse. Beyond limited resources, some owners keep their horse shod simply for the convenience the shoe offers. Boots can offer the same convenience without compromising the health of their horse's feet.
One last point to consider. Boots can alleviate the discomfort of many common pathologies such as navicular syndrome, ringbone, sidebone, sole bruising, as well as, conditions such as bone splints and even arthritis. Boots offer excellent shock absorption, especially when compared to a steel shoe. It just stands to reason, how much cushion can a piece of steel nailed to your horse's foot offer?
The boot I recommend is the OLD MAC. The manufacturer's website is www.oldmacs.com. Their is a wealth of information on the site, along with a Q&A section and testimonials. They are available over the Internet and at tack stores. I recommend Valley Vet Supply, they can be reached at www.valleyvet.com or 1-800-356-1005. One word of caution though, follow the directions carefully when measuring your horse's feet, choosing the right size is key to getting the maximum benefit form the boot, or any boot for that matter. It is best the foot be measured after it has been properly trimmed, a complimentary service I offer to all of my clients. Prices vary, but they are generally economical when compared to keeping a horse shod. In most cases they will only be needed on the front feet, but can be worn on all four if needed. There are new boots coming out on the market regularly. One such boot is the Boa boot, from the makers of the easyboot. I have not yet seen one in use , but they appear to offer many of the same benefits of the Old Macs. As the trend towards barefoot horses increases, I believe the chooses available to owners will increase as well. The boots now available are a testimony to the fact that more and more owners are opting to go barefoot. Beyond boots, there is now a glue on rubber shoe available. I have received a sample of it and it looks promising. Although, I can see it being of the most benefit for horses suffering from pathologies that require constant support. For the average horse, a boot is a much better and economical alternative. My goal wasn't to come across as a commercial for boots, but just to give you some "food for thought" when considering a hoofcare program for your horse. Until next month, dare to go bare...barefoot that is.
