Here
is a case I worked on and happened to have my camera. I will be posting
updates on this case and others, as they happen. If you have any
questions or comments get in touch with me at: Dave@Equicast.US This injury took place July 18, 2007
Figure
1 is a young barefoot appaloosa horse (2 years old) that has an avulse
lateral heel. He was found with the heel damage and part of the hoof
(heel) missing.
Figure 2
Another view from the bottom (solar) the red fleshy part is actually
the plantar cushion. Notice the bar is missing along with some of the
sole.
Figure
3
The area has been cleaned with water and a mixture of sugar and
iodine has been made and placed on a clean 4 X 4. A little information
about making this sugardine paste for drawing out infections in the
hoof capsule. When making the sugardine paste start with about 1/2 cup of common sugar add 1/2 teaspoon of a very weak solution of iodine
(betadine) stir in the betadine check for consistency. Try for
something like thick molasses.
Figure
4
Place the 4 X 4 with the sugardine paste mixture over the wound; wrap
vetwrap around the 4 X 4 and the whole hoof capsule. This will hold the
sugardine solution against the wound and help to keep out dirt and
debris out. Be careful not to get the vetwrap to tight above the
hairline.
Figure 5 & 6 Now use 2″ X 4 yards Equicast casting tape to hold the vetrap in place and give extra support to the whole hoof capsule. Follow instructions on applying Equicast. The cast will protect the hoof and vetrap as well as add support. After the initial insult change the sugardine, vetrap and cast at least every 3 to 4 days. If all is going well, increase the time to once a week for the next month. Then apply just the cast and if shod nail a shoe onto this cast. If the horse is barefoot then continue with the cast until the heel has grown out. A mistake that is often made is to remove the cast before the heel has had a chance to grow down. Leave the cast on for support.
When
the horse is comfortable and can go in light work a shoe can then be
nailed onto the cast and light work can be started. Make sure that a
veterinarian is consulted during this whole process.
If
you try this process and would like to have your case posted on this
web site please email me at: Dave@Equicast.US More cases that are
posted and discussed here the more information that will be available
for owners, trainers, farriers, and veterinarians.
Your help here could make a difference in a horse's life.
Equicast Inc.
Equicast Temporary Support System (ETSS) Post Office Box 442485 Lawrence, KS 66044 Toll Free 866-844-3336 Email: Equicast@Sunflower.com
