Equicast can be applied by an owner, vet, or farrier is
user-friendly and affordable for the treatment of hoof problems (structural
wall failure). Casting adds temporary wear protection and support to the whole
hoof capsule. Whether these equine hoof problems originated naturally or by man
doings, casting (Equicast) helps
support the whole hoof capsule, this added support does help grow stronger
healthier hoof walls and soles. Our products and wrapping methods have been
designed to assist nature in restoring healthy and effective biomechanics
necessary for sustainable and healthy growth.
Equicast is made in the USA and is not a human orthopedic cast sold to the
equine market as a hoof casts. Equicast has been designed specifically for an equine’s
needs. Over the last 15- 20 years
we developed a cast that is durable yet still flexible. Our research clearly
demonstrated we had to find that secret combination of flexibility, integrity,
and durability. Once we found the right qualities needed for the demands of
wear, support, environment and natural hoof dynamics, we then needed to develop
specific wrapping methods that addressed specific challenges. Not all wrapping
methods are created equal.
A circumference wrap: is an example of a specific wrapping method that
is used for thin-tender soles.
Overloading these tender-thin soles can cause a horse great discomfort
so the circumference wrap was developed for that specific challenge.
A full wrap: is used where higher support is needed, as in toe
and quarter cracks, wrap the cast higher up on the hoof wall, this full wrap is
handy when the walls are weak, cracked, or damaged higher up the wall. Unlike
the circumference wrap where a majority of the casting material was wrapped
around the bottom 1/3 of the hoof, a full cast incorporates more of the wall.
The full casting method is also used for securing EVAs, aluminum, steel and
plastic shoes to a hoof.
There will be cases where booth
methods are used on one hoof. When a horse has lost the integrity of both the
walls and soles applying a circumference cast first (sole relief) followed by a
full wrap may be needed. One case we learned this from was horse in New York
named Vixen. She had been dealing with severe mechanical laminitis for a long
time. In Vixen’s case a circumference cast was applied first (sole relief) and
two full cast (sole protection) were applied on top of the circumference cast.
Vixen clearly demonstrated to us the value of casting and at times the need for
multiple casts on one hoof.