Animal Life - Hoof Care Week

 

A week to educate the public, and especially owners of hoofed animals (including zoos), on the significance of hoof care.  Negligence can result in infections as well as lame and sore feet.

Even-toed ungulates are so-called for bearing weight equally on two of their five toes.  This includes cattle, pigs, giraffes, camels, sheep, deer, and hippos.

Odd-toed ungulates use three or one of their toes.  This includes horses, rhinos, and tapirs.

In either case, the other toes may be present, absent, vestigial, or positioned posteriorly.

 

Most hoof care has been focused on horses, and horseshoes first appeared in ancient Rome around 500 BC.

In the 20th century, becoming a farrier was a skilled profession.  They were considered authorities in the care of hoofed animals, combining veterinarian and blacksmith knowledge.

Hoof care includes trimming and shoeing, maintaining good hoof balance and proper footing in weather conditions.  In dry weather, moisturizing may be necessary if the hoof is brittle or developing cracks.  It's also important to check for and clear out any debris in the sole of the hoof.