Sensitive Soles

Thin, sensitive soles can put your horse’s feet at risk for bruising and abscesses. Thin soles can be caused by over-trimming, and most practitioners now know not to try to trim an arch into a flat sole. Wet environments can overly soften the sole and contribute to thinning. Then, too, some horses are simply genetically predisposed to thin soles. Good nutrition is essential; make sure your horse receives enough biotin, methionine, lysine, copper, and zinc in his diet. Regular exercise to promote circulation is also critical, as are routine visits from a competent hoof-care professional. For extra help, see “Sole Solutions” at right.