22/06/2024
So to have a good quality horn it mainly comes from the diet and we can complement that with a hoof dressing. Which one you chose to use will depend on the desired effect.
But in short, hoof moisture is all down to osmosis, if the hoof has more moisture than the ground or the air, then it is going to be sucked out. If the air or ground has more moisture than the hoof it will then get sucked in.
The main dressing groups are -
Oil, used to get a shiny hoof but generally that is all it will do, it often contains chemicals and will dry the hoof out and make it brittle, but shiny.
Aqueous cream, does a fab job of adding moisture. However it doesn’t create a barrier to prevent it leaving the hoof, so unless you are using it multiple times a day. You won’t see much improvement as it will quite simply dry out.
Animal fat based, will add moisture, not as much as aqueous cream, but it does create a layer which slows down the osmosis. Keeping moisture locked in for longer. It also leave a nice deep shine.
So from the 3 options the animal fat would do a better job, Dr David Marlin did a test and it did come back as the best results for locking in moisture.
Quite often we need to be proactive with applying a dressing rather than reactive as when we notice the hoof is dry, it is normally very dry and takes some time to regain the moisture. If we are proactive with applying as slowing down the osmosis, it keeps a quality hoof for longer.
I have infact created my own product after lots of research, it is an animal fat based product to do the above, but with an added generous dose of eucalyptus oil to help keep on top of any bad bacteria that might linger in cracks or nail holes to help to prevent the hoof from becoming crumbly or getting thrush.
If you would like to have a look at my product here is the link-
Priority Equine Hoof - This hoof dressing is a natural way to ensure quality hoof condition during both the summer and winter months. This hoof dressing has added eucalyptus oil, which brings natural antibacterial properties to help prevent crumbling hooves and thrush. The eucalyptus smell also help...