Caring for your horse's hooves is essential for their overall health and performance. Healthy hooves support mobility, prevent lameness, and ensure your horse can perform at their best. Let’s delve into some best practices for hoof care and explore a selection of premium products that can make a world of difference.
Essentials of Horse Hoof Care
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Regular Maintenance
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Schedule routine visits with a qualified farrier.
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Clean and pick hooves daily to remove dirt, stones, and manure.
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Inspect for cracks, chips, or signs of infection.
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Diet and Nutrition
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A balanced diet supports strong, healthy hooves.
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Include supplements with biotin, zinc, and amino acids for optimal hoof growth and condition.
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Environmental Management
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Provide a clean, dry environment to prevent excessive moisture or dryness.
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Use hoof moisturizers or oils to maintain hydration levels as needed.
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Tried-and-True Products for Hoof Health
WITCHES BREW HOOF OIL
Witches Brew is more than just a hoof oil; it’s a complete care solution. Quick to apply and highly nourishing, it deeply conditions the hoof while creating a stunning shine. Its unique formula:
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Encourages healthy hoof growth.
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Retains essential moisture.
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Contains antiseptic properties to prevent infections.
KERATEX HOOF MOISTURISER
Perfect for dry, brittle hooves, this “intelligent” formula restores and maintains ideal moisture levels, preventing cracks and flaking. Apply to the entire hoof, including the frog, coronary band, and heels, for comprehensive hydration.
WORLD'S BEST HOOF OIL
This trusted formula has been a favorite for over 50 years. Made with 100% pure natural ingredients, it absorbs quickly to:
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Promote strong and healthy hoof growth.
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Support horses in high-performance environments.
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Deliver vitamins and oils essential for long-term hoof health.
EFFOL HOOF OINTMENT
Effol is an excellent choice for brittle hooves prone to cracking. This antibacterial ointment strengthens hooves while guarding against skin diseases and split heels. Ideal for wet conditions, it also repels dust and provides a natural shine perfect for shows.
FOURFLAX EQUINE BIOTIN+
This premium supplement contains high levels of biotin, methionine, and organic minerals to:
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Strengthen and grow hooves.
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Improve coat and skin condition.
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Deliver Omega 3, 6, and 9 for comprehensive hoof health.
VETPRO FOUR FEET
Specifically designed for performance horses, Vetpro Four Feet combines essential nutrients to:
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Boost moisture retention.
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Promote robust hoof growth.
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Address common issues like seedy toe and foot infections. This supplement is a great option for long-term hoof health improvement.
HOOF GOLD
For horses with challenging conditions like laminitis or white line disease, Hoof Gold provides a concentrated blend of biotin, MSM, methionine, and zinc. Its veterinary-formulated recipe supports hoof strength and growth. Easy to mix into feed, it’s a convenient and effective solution for serious hoof concerns.
Proactive Hoof Care Pays Off
Healthy hooves are the foundation of a healthy horse. By combining regular care with high-quality products like those we stock at NZ Tack, you can ensure your horse’s hooves stay in top condition year-round. Visit us in-store to explore these products and get expert advice tailored to your horse’s unique needs.
