With an array of hoof ailments posing a threat to our horse’s health and soundness, it is vital as owner we are prepared for anything. That’s why we have put together some Hoof First Aid Kit essentials.
Make sure you’re prepared for any eventuality with these essential first-aid items for the hooves. With your summer hoof care regime in full swing, we hope you won’t need to use them! However, as we all know, horses are unpredictable so it’s better to be safe than sorry…
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Shallow Bucket (15L) – from Gorilla
A shallow bucket is perfect for soaking or cleaning a horse’s hoof as it’s flexible and not very tall! Its bendy structure makes it practically unbreakable, so sharp edges will not pose a threat to further injure your horse. Plus, its shallow design makes it easy to get your horse’s foot in and out of the bucket!
Also, did you know that immersing horses’ feet in cold water can help prevent the onset of laminitis? Reducing swelling of the laminae and maintaining its integrity regularly immersing the feet in cold water might just keep your horse out, all summer long!
Also, a bucket of hot water is essential for drawing out any potential infection in the hoof. Keeping a bucket, for emergency use only is vital, as it need to be sterile to prevent causing infection.
Animalintex Hoof Poultice (3pk) from Robinson Animal Health
When you come across a puncture wound or abscess, you need to act immediately. That’s why having a poultice dressing in your kit is crucial. When warmed and moistened, it can draw out dirt and infection, much like a tubbing a foot but without the fuss. Having at least one on hand, will give you chance to run out to get some more, with a general rule of changing poultices twice per day.
Vet Wrap
That poultice won’t stay there on its own, so vet wrap is an essential. This self adhesive bandage enables a quick securing of any poultice or any other padding for the treatment of an injury.
Purple Spray
Purple spray is an antibacterial, antiseptic dye, used to treat bacterial and fungal infection. It is useful for minor wound, to protect from infection once they are cleaned. Deeper would will need veterinary attention, so avoid using topical treatments until your vet has assessed the situation and decided on the best cause of action.
Hibiscrub
Also an antiseptic solution, Hibiscrub is great for minor cuts and wounds too. Diluting the solution, it can be used to scrub out feet in cases of thrush. However, the solution can be quite drying to the skin, so keep your eye out for areas of flaky or sore patches, and general hoof condition.
Hoof Pick
A ‘must-have’ to hand item in any emergency situation regarding the hoof, the hoof pick is an essential. Perfect for getting to the route of the problem and find what exactly is going on, the bristled end can brush away dirt any remaining dirt with ease! Take your pick of colours too, as this hoof pick comes in purple, pink, and blue too.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.
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