THRUSH is one the most common foot problems. It's also the most preventable with proper stall management. Thrush is an infection caused by anaerobic bacteria, which attacks groves (commissure or sulcus) on either side of the frog, the cleft of the frog or the frog itself. The affected areas will be black and tarry like; stink worse then boiled brussel sprouts.
The cause of thrush is often manure-laden stalls or urine soaked bedding where the horse stands. You should clean your corrals at least once a day. The manual labor is great for toning your upper body. Don't forget about picking those feet too. Also poorly drained yards where horses stand in mud for long periods of time will cause thrush. Before the rainy season starts spend a few extra bucks and put equine decomposed granite (DG) made especially for corrals and arenas. Don't forget to schedule proper trimming or shoeing every six to eight weeks for your four-legged pal.
Old remedies to treat the infected hoof were pouring Formalin (a mixture of formaldehyde, water and methanol) or laundry bleach into the affected area. Thank goodness there are several effective (and safer) commercial products like Thrush Buster available at your local feed store or through mail catalogs. Make sure you follow directions carefully and wear old jeans and gloves. Some of the commercial products have a very distinct color (vivid purple or yellow) that won't wash out of your favorite jeans.
Depending on the severity of thrush your farrier will trim away the infected area. Check to be sure if Merrylegs is up on her tetanus vaccination. In extreme cases of thrush your veterinarian might prescribe antibiotics.
SOLE BRUISES are an injury to the sole commonly caused by rocks, gravel, or other hard objects. Unlevel or worn-down horseshoes can also cause bruising. If you ride on rocky terrain do your horse's feet a favor and shoe them as preventive medicine. If your horse's sole does become bruised provide a soft place to stand in his stall (rubber mats or bedding). Depending on the severity of the bruise he may need special shoes with a pad or bar, so talk to your farrier about your options.
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