another...SPECIAL EDITION

HOOF BOOTS:
...and how we can't live without them...

Like many things in the life of outdoorsy types, the weather can and does effect everyday comings and goings.

The immense amount of rain we've had during this spring and summer has meant the grass has grown, the mud has appeared , turned to dust and appeared again, and hooves have needed attention in ever decreasing time frames. 

So it is I find myself in a horse-related-common-predicament most horse owners will appreciate.  A week earlier than usual, T&H's hooves needed attention, they have just outgrown their shoes very fast.  Happily John had foreseen this and booked Steve early.

BUT, Steve had a 'shoe-and-show' at the East of England Show planned so he was coming Sunday instead of Saturday.  Saturday was nice, but Sunday it chucked it down and I had to concede Steve couldn't come.  By then I was forced myself to remove one of Tom's shoes.  I only do this if it's easy and the fear of damage to the horse is high, Steve would not approve of my technique, but I just can't seem to wield those heavy pliers in one hand, so kneeling down I rest their legs across my lap...and use 2 hands! (don't tell Steve).  Both Tom & Henry stand perfectly still, not tied up whilst I do this too, they are very good boys.

So, by Sunday Tom was hobbling about, his foot now sore, so I put a hoof boot on: size 5.  My favourite is the Easy Boot, I'm buying more once I've finished typing!

Then, and it's Tuesday night, of course drama can't happen here without Henry being involved, it just wouldn't be right, Henry has pulled one of his now loose shoes off somewhere, I still can't find it even with Coco's help, so the smaller hoof boot has gone on him too, size: 4.  One minute hobbling about, the next perfectly comfortable and happy. 

Tom and Henry are not put-off or slowed down by the attachment of hoof boots, so they go about their usual routine with them on.  We have mud here, but the height of the Easy boot covers the pastern and happily the mud isn't that deep...if John Craven is right though, it'll rain for another 3 weeks in all likelihood...note to self, stop watching Countryfile!

I recommend these hoof boots, they really allow the boys to get on with life and I don't worry about their feet getting sore...and of course it stops the horn wearing out more before Steve can get here...hopefully Friday...but who knows, it might still be raining.

UPDATE: 13July
I have ordered more Easyboot Hoofboots for Tom & Henry since they are so very handy, and whilst one pair are in the wash (not sure if you're supposed to put them in the washing machine, but I do), the new ones went on them this morning...I love next day delivery...their feet are all happy waiting for Steve to arrive later today.





I have also ordered some more insoles for them, and these I learn can be varied depending on the needs of your horse.  I simply wanted the common comfort ones replaced that came with the boot since my boys aren't suffering from any affliction, they just have missing shoes BUT after speaking to: URBAN HORSE, I learn there a few different types to suit recovering laminitics or those with hoof and sole damage.  In fact, the girls at URBAN HORSE specialise in all things barefoot & bitless, the natural way.  Give them a call they are very helpful.



...also, John found Henry's missing shoe!!!!!