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Hey all you natural Hoof people!

3K views 14 replies 7 participants last post by  zanytactics 
#1 ·
Just a question. ;)
I just got a new weanling a few months ago, and I was wondering what I should be walking him on, etc. for strong hooves? He's in a pretty cushy pasture, so I was thinking rocks/gravel etc? How do I get him used to this? I'm a big believer that the ground in the early stages sets the hoof up to be strong or weak, but I'm sure you guys know about it more then I do. ;)

Thanks!

(Here's a picture of the boy if you're curious. :) )

Picasa Web Albums - Kelly - Baltic
 
#2 ·
My understanding is to use pea gravel in areas, like the barn lot, near water, in run ins to help them toughen up their soles. Making strips of graveled areas, like roads that they can walk on or next to if they are not comfy on is good. Making strips they have to cross but are not too wide in case of tenderness is also good.

Oh, he is a cutie.. Love his face.
 
#3 ·
In the run-in shed is a glorious idea... I'm definitely going to have to try that. ;)

I have crushed pea gravel in our 'parking lot' (I have a big driveway) so I'll just start taking him through there for the moment. Thanks for the idea!
 
#4 ·
After we went barefoot with our horses, I collected gravel from the creek bed here and made it about a horse length wide from the water tank (about 4 or5 /5 gallon buckets worth. not a lot just a scattering really) The horses had to get all 4 feet on the gravel to get a drink. It worked out really well and I noticed a vast improvement in their feet by the next time a trim was due.
 
#6 ·
I was walking my horses up and down the driveway too until my trimmer suggested putting the rock around the water tank. *slap forhead* DUH... I thought it was genius!!! :lol:
 
#7 ·
We're bringing in rock to put at the gates, around feeding areas, and in some of the areas that the horses have trodden down (where they like to walk a lot). I am going to put a concrete slab with a "rough" top under the shelter. Concrete or Asphalt is good for their feet too, and it makes cleaning out the shelter a LOT easier!!
 
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