The Importance of Recognizing & Treating Thrush

It’s no secret that proper detection and treatment of equine hoof problems is essential for their soundness and to prevent lameness and potential founder. It’s imperative that we as owners and caregivers be vigilant and frequently observe and address any issues related to our furry friends overall hoof health.

One hoof infection common to our climate is called Thrush. It is a fungal/bacterial infection which results in pain and discomfort and can lead to lameness. Thrush is most often found on or around the frog area of the hoof and can compromise its ability to distribute oxygenated blood to the vital hoof structures and then return the blood to the heart. Thrush is prevalent in equines who spend the majority of their time in moist pastures and/or unclean stalls. If thrush is present in the frog, the equine can have a noticeable limp. Upon gently cleaning and inspecting the bottom of the hoof you will notice that the frog and/or central sulcus may have a distinct dark color or is black. A noticeable crack between the heal bulbs is also a good indication of infection. If you gently press on the frog it may secrete a very foul smelling, dark pus. If the hoof is infected and tender, the equine may show signs of discomfort and or pain. It’s crucial that the thrush be treated immediately as it may eventually compromise the hoof structure and possibly the coffin bone. While it’s always best to consult with your Farrier and Veterinarian, if thrush is detected there are some natural home treatments that can be considered.

Home Treatments

OK, it is important that we have a thorough and comprehensive understanding of hoof anatomy, ailments and terminology to help us effectively recognize and describe hoof conditions to your Farrier, Veterinarian or Stable /Barn Manager. If boarders, staff or volunteers are novices when it comes to proper hoof care, please take it upon yourself to educate them based on what you know and what you have learned. Consult with your Farrier or Veterinarian thoroughly for an explanation of their experiences and treatments for thrush, and other hoof ailments, to increase your understanding and ability to correctly educate all equine handlers at your facility. We're all in this together. Remember, the happier our equines are, 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 Member and Volunteer Writer

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