The wild mustang hoof has been the subject of much research in recent years. This has been very important in shedding light on exactly why these feral animals have such strong feet, compared to their domesticated cousins. The research has been conducted by a number of different people and from a number of different angles.
Similar research in Australia using the feral horse population is also being synthesized. It shows some remarkable similarities between the two groups of horses. Many people are now accessing the work, which is usually published on line after it has been reviewed by leading veterinarians. Learning more about the horses feet and how they work could be the best step towards treating and avoiding lameness in domesticated breeds.
Some horses spend months or even years taking common anti inflammatory drugs. This helps to relieve the pressure caused by inflammation within the sensitive part of their hoof. Delicate tissue called the laminae can become inflamed. Because it is encased between the hoof wall and the inside of the foot there is literally no where for the inflammation to go. The horse may be in so much pain he is hesitant to move. Each year many domestic horses are put down due to complications from this distressing condition.
Mustangs feet develop in a way that is unique to them. Because they carry their weight more evenly distributed over the entire foot, blood supply is often better. A good strong blood supply to the delicate tissues between the wall of the hoof and the interior can prevent many lameness often seen in domesticated horses. The tissue, called the laminae, is crucial to a sound foot. If it becomes inflamed the horse will suffer extreme pain and be rendered virtually immobile.
One of the most interesting finding has been the typical patterns found in the mustangs feet. The front of their hooves is worn down in a characteristic roll that helps to distribute their weight evenly over their entire foot. This in turn leads to better circulation and overall better hoof condition.
Many owners mistakenly assume that their horse needs shoes. This is just not the case, especially for young animals or those that do not work much. Many horses would be fine to go barefoot. Many farriers are learning about barefoot trimming methods. These help to duplicate the shape of a mustangs foot, with its wide stance and even weight distribution.
Many people look at the mustangs with their shaggy coats and big feet and perceive them as ugly. Instead these traits should be seen for the advantages they create. A lame horse is of no use to anyone and chronically lame animals are often put down as they cost too much to keep. Actively looking for ways to improve the quality of the horses feet is a significant step in the right direction.
The work continues and it is hoped that in the next few years many of the finding from the mustangs will be put into practical application with domesticated equines. The wild mustang hoof is the perfect example of genetics and environment coming together. These sturdy little horses are well known for their stamina and strength. It now seems that they have a lot to offer their domestic cousins.
Similar research in Australia using the feral horse population is also being synthesized. It shows some remarkable similarities between the two groups of horses. Many people are now accessing the work, which is usually published on line after it has been reviewed by leading veterinarians. Learning more about the horses feet and how they work could be the best step towards treating and avoiding lameness in domesticated breeds.
Some horses spend months or even years taking common anti inflammatory drugs. This helps to relieve the pressure caused by inflammation within the sensitive part of their hoof. Delicate tissue called the laminae can become inflamed. Because it is encased between the hoof wall and the inside of the foot there is literally no where for the inflammation to go. The horse may be in so much pain he is hesitant to move. Each year many domestic horses are put down due to complications from this distressing condition.
Mustangs feet develop in a way that is unique to them. Because they carry their weight more evenly distributed over the entire foot, blood supply is often better. A good strong blood supply to the delicate tissues between the wall of the hoof and the interior can prevent many lameness often seen in domesticated horses. The tissue, called the laminae, is crucial to a sound foot. If it becomes inflamed the horse will suffer extreme pain and be rendered virtually immobile.
One of the most interesting finding has been the typical patterns found in the mustangs feet. The front of their hooves is worn down in a characteristic roll that helps to distribute their weight evenly over their entire foot. This in turn leads to better circulation and overall better hoof condition.
Many owners mistakenly assume that their horse needs shoes. This is just not the case, especially for young animals or those that do not work much. Many horses would be fine to go barefoot. Many farriers are learning about barefoot trimming methods. These help to duplicate the shape of a mustangs foot, with its wide stance and even weight distribution.
Many people look at the mustangs with their shaggy coats and big feet and perceive them as ugly. Instead these traits should be seen for the advantages they create. A lame horse is of no use to anyone and chronically lame animals are often put down as they cost too much to keep. Actively looking for ways to improve the quality of the horses feet is a significant step in the right direction.
The work continues and it is hoped that in the next few years many of the finding from the mustangs will be put into practical application with domesticated equines. The wild mustang hoof is the perfect example of genetics and environment coming together. These sturdy little horses are well known for their stamina and strength. It now seems that they have a lot to offer their domestic cousins.
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