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No Shoes: The Transition from Shod to Barefoot |
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In a deformed hoof, the shock absorbing mechanism cannot function as it should. This results in pressure, crushing and inflammation inside the hoof--which the shod horse does not feel since, as a result of the reduced blood circulation caused by the shoeing, the hoof's nerves are numbed. The unshod horse, however, can clearly feel the discomfort from pressure or infection, and therefore goes short or even lame, especially on stony ground.
Deformed hooves must be healed in order to relieve the horse's suffering, as pain-free movement is only possible with healthy hooves.
BUT A CRIPPLED HOOF DOES NOT HEAL BY ITSELF, JUST BECAUSE THE SHOE HAS BEEN REMOVED.
Even boots are not the answer in such a case: with them, a horse with deformed, crippled hooves can walk reasonably well for years, without any healing taking place.
After the removal of the shoes, it is essential that deformed hooves be professionally trimmed (by someone who understands about the NATURAL HOOF) once a week, for about a quarter year, in order that the hoof and the coffin bone regain their natural, healthy, physiologically correct (and functioning) shape. This reshaping process, understandably linked with some inflammation and pain, can take weeks or months, and for severely deformed hooves even a year or longer (in such a case it is advisable that the treatment take place in a clinic for the first few months). The transition period is necessarily a time of restraint for the rider; he must make allowances for the horse. It would be unrealistic to ask for the same performance during the changeover period as while the horse was shod. Anyone who is not prepared to take all these things into consideration would be well advised not to attempt the transition to barefoot. Moreover, success can only be expected when, at the same time, the living conditions of the horse are optimal. Providing this flight animal with freedom of movement around the clock (through an open stall with paddock, allowing the horse to choose whether it is outside or in), is an essential prerequisite for the successful healing of deformed hooves and the transition to barefoot.
With friendly permition by DVM H. Strasser
Copyright 2005 Dr. vet. med. H. Strasser
Ed & Trans. Sabine Kells
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