flat hoof problems

Question
Hi,
I am considering buying a horse, but it has hoof problems. The horse is a 8-9 year old quarter horse mare. The problem is only in her front hooves, but it affects her ability to be ridden extensively. The problem is she lives on a sand/grass pasture all the time,and the sand has worn down the bottom of her front hooves, causing her to limp somewhat when she is ridden. It also has caused her front hooves to become very flat in the heel area. The owner says that if she is to be ridden extensively, she needs shoes on her front feet. So I just wanted to get another opinion on what could help her to grow back some hoof wall, and help her to be more sound.

Thank you!
Madeline

Answer
Madeline,

Yeah, she needs shoes, at least for now, until she can grow some hoof.  Farrier's Formula hoof supplement is helpful in growing good hooves as well.  I live in a sandy area and have some horses who need shoes if ridden a lot while others do just fine without.  My Mustangs are fine, my Standardbred needs shoes.  Just like some people have very hard fingernails and others don't.  

Lyn