Equine Welfare

Equine Hoof Care and Welfare

Proper hoof care is fundamental to horse welfare, as hoof problems are a leading cause of lameness, pain, and euthanasia in horses worldwide.

Key Facts

Hoof problems are responsible for approximately 60% of lameness in horses
Laminitis is one of the most painful and debilitating equine conditions, affecting blood supply to hooves
Regular farriery every 6-8 weeks is essential for maintaining healthy hoof balance
Navicular disease causes chronic deep pain in the heel and coffin bone
Wet and muddy conditions increase risk of thrush and white line disease in hooves

Welfare Considerations

The hoof is a highly vascular, sensitive structure whose health is inseparable from overall horse welfare. Laminitis causes agonizing pressure on the sensitive laminae, with horses adopting characteristic painful postures to reduce weight on affected feet. Neglected hooves become overgrown and distorted, causing abnormal gait, joint strain, and persistent pain. Proactive farriery, appropriate nutrition, and good ground management are the foundation of equine welfare.

What You Can Do

Ensure horses receive regular farriery from qualified professionals
Learn to recognize early signs of laminitis and hoof problems
Manage pasture access and diet to reduce laminitis risk in prone horses
Support horse welfare organizations that provide farriery assistance to neglected horses