Duel Action: Hoof & Coat Conditioning
If there were such a thing as dapple oil, it would invariably replace the containers of linseed, the bags of rice bran, and the jugs of corn oil frequently found in feed rooms. As it is, horsemen must rely on a balanced nutrition program, strict devotion to an effective grooming protocol, and a health management plan designed to minimise parasitism and disease in order to ensure a health looking hair coat.
Horsemen rely on a gleaming coat to draw attention to their charges, whether it’s in the show ring, sales arena or breeding shed. In an industry in which horsemen spend incredible sums of money on potential, rather than actual athleticism, every detail counts. Peak coat and hoof condition are paramount for all horses, as a brilliant sheen on the outside speaks volumes for the well being of the horse on the inside.
Regular hoof care is essential for show or sale horses. Horses should be trimmed and re-shod, if necessary, every four to six weeks, depending upon the growth rate and health of the hooves. Hooves tend to grow more slowly in late autumn and winter. Brittle, cracked, or chipped hooves can seriously impede the potential of an equine athlete. However, some breeds or bloodlines are predisposed to poor hoof quality. Thoroughbreds, for instance, are known for shelly hoof walls. Potential buyers and judges frown upon corrective shoes (such as bar shoes) for the weaknesses they represent. Therefore, proper hoof care should begin at birth and be maintained stringently throughout the life of the horse. Even so-called pasture ornaments (horses at maintenance or spelling) should be privy to regular hoof care by a professional farrier.
Compromises in hoof wall integrity should be ameliorated as quickly as possible through the use of a competent farrier and diligent care. A horse predisposed to poor hoof quality should be dosed daily with a biotin supplement. Studies at Kentucky Equine Research, Inc. have mirrored those of other scientists in that 20mg of biotin daily was found to positively impact hoof quality. In addition to 20mg of biotin, EQUIVIT Bio-Bloom contains methionine, zinc and iodine.
Added yeast culture maximises nutrient digestibility and mineral absorption. A favourable consequence of feeding Bio Bloom is increased coat condition. Coupled with a well-balanced diet, biotin supplementation will not strengthen already damaged hoof wall, but visible improvement in the quality of new hoof growth is easily discernible in most horses.
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