Cold winter across the prairies makes everything a little tougher including managing proper hoof care for your horse.

Its not uncommon this time of year for snow to steadily build up on the bottom of hooves particularly when they have shoes on. With the majority of weight being borne by the front feet, it is easy to see that this snow build-up can cause discomfort and even lead to sole or frog bruising. Not only can this be uncomfortable, but snow compaction also can increase your horse’s risk of falling because they are put off balance.

Its -30 C and the last thing you feel like doing after scrapping the snow and ice off your windshield is picking out rock hard snow from your horses feet just to have that snow build-up again. There are a few different options to address snow build-up. One way is through the use of a snowball pad that is placed between the horses hoof and shoe. The dome in the center of the pad prevents snow from building-up.

Snowball Pad
Snowball pad specially designed to prevent snow and ice build-up on the bottom of the hoof

With snow looking like its here to stay, its the time of year to discuss with Dr. Lukianchuk about snowball pads for your horse or other winter hoof management solutions.