barefoot and sore

Question
My walker has been barefoot in the back for 10 weeks, the front, 4 weeks.  He was doing well, even with riding until this last farrier visit.  He soles in the toe area are pink.  I requested a trim for balance, and reminded my farrier that I was keeping him barefoot.  I live in South Florida and most of the horses here are shod.  Owners will say that they must have their horses shod due to the rocky surface.  I'm determined to go barefoot with my horse.  I have tried to locate a barefoot farrier, but there are none in my area, (at least not known to me).  I'm pushing for this because my horse is always loosing shoes, tearing off hoof, and we miss rides.  I'm going to purchase boots, should I wait till he has had a chance to grow new hoof?  If yes, how long should I wait?  Should I be soaking him in Epsom salt?  I do use iodine on the edge (white line) and outer 1  inch of hoof.  It does help.  I appreciate your help.

Answer
Hi Pamela ... :)

You probably want to get boots now to help protect from stone bruising and soreness. The pink in the toe area of the soles should be protected and if you can I would have a qualified professional look at them to make sure you are not dealing with the start of any pathological conditions.

Most farriers, in preparing the hoof for shoe, will pare down the sole leaving little thickness for adequate protection. The sole *should* be 1/2" - 3/4" thick and be nice and hard. They rarely should be touched during trimming of the barefooted horse. Where is South Florida are you that has rocky surfaces? I remember Florida being nothing but sugar sand and that can be tough on bare hooves.

You'll probably also want to assess your horse's diet. A diet containing too much sugar and too many carbs will wreak havoc with the hooves.

I wouldn't soak the hooves in anything as that will further soften the soles. You want them to harden up. Try hand walking him daily for 10 mins. or so on SMOOTH, hard, level surface such as a tarred road. But protect the hooves before walking. (see below).Once again, the hooves should be looked at by a knowledgeable professional hoofcare provider.

In the interim, if your horse is very tender, you can duct tape styrofoam or thick, rubber matting cut to size onto his hooves for comfort.

Hope this is somewhat helpful to you.

:) -- Gwen