Winter brings unique challenges for horse owners, and frozen ground is a significant concern. The hard, uneven surfaces caused by frozen soil can take a toll on your horse’s hooves, leading to discomfort and potential injuries if not addressed properly.

The Risks of Frozen Ground for Hooves

1. Bruising and Cracking:
   The solid, unforgiving nature of frozen ground can cause impact bruises, especially for horses with thin hoof walls. Repeated exposure can also lead to cracking and splitting, compromising hoof integrity.

2. Hard Impact During Movement:
   Frozen ground creates an unforgiving surface, increasing the shock absorbed by your horse’s hooves and legs during movement. Over time, this repeated impact can lead to soreness or injury, especially for horses with sensitive or compromised hooves. Providing softer footing in turnout areas can help reduce this strain.
   

3. Reduced Circulation:
   Cold conditions can reduce blood flow to the hooves, slowing growth and natural healing processes. This is particularly concerning for horses recovering from injuries or with pre-existing hoof issues like navicular or laminitis.

Prevention Tips for Healthy Hooves This Winter

Check out our "Winter Hoof Care Tips for Your Horse" for more winter hoof tips!

1. Regular Trimming and Maintenance:
   Keeping hooves properly trimmed ensures even weight distribution, minimizing the risk of cracks or chips on hard ground. Work with your farrier to create a winter hoof-care schedule.

2. Support with Nutrition and Supplements:
   Incorporate products like Feet & Bone Support into your horse’s diet. This blend includes herbs like horsetail and comfrey to promote strong, resilient hooves and support recovery from the wear and tear of frozen surfaces.

3. Provide Soft, Dry Ground:
   Create turnout areas with softer footing, such as sand, hay, or shavings, to give your horse relief from frozen ground. Avoid muddy areas that freeze into sharp, uneven surfaces. You may need to move their water and feed location to accommodate the ground conditions.

4. Protect with Boots or Pads:
   Hoof boots or therapeutic pads can shield your horse’s hooves during turnout, providing cushioning and insulation.

Lameness Protocol

Lameness often results from inflammation caused by the repeated impact of hooves on hard, frozen surfaces. Infla-aid is formulated with herbs like yucca and devil’s claw, known for their natural anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients help soothe soreness, reduce swelling, and support your horse’s recovery, making it an excellent choice for managing lameness due to frozen ground.

Simple frozen ground hoof protocol to follow:

🌿 Sole bruises: Use Feet & Bone + Infla-aid to help reduce discomfort and support recovery.

🌿 Lameness from frozen ground: Feet & Bone + Infla-aid to manage inflammation and promote healing.

🌿 For prevention: Use Feet & Bone Support to strengthen hooves and bones before issues arise.

Spotting Early Signs of Hoof Trouble

During winter, keep an eye out for:

• Persistent lameness or discomfort.
• Visible cracks or chips in the hoof wall.
• Sensitivity to hard surfaces.
• Changes in gait or reluctance to move.

Addressing these issues early can prevent more severe problems and keep your horse comfortable throughout the season.

Winter Hoof Health Starts Today

Frozen ground is inevitable, but with proactive care and support, your horse’s hooves can stay healthy and strong all winter. Start by assessing your winter hoof-care routine and incorporating products designed to make a difference. Check out our Feet & Bone Support blend for optimal hoof and bone care.

Your horse’s hooves carry them through every season—ensure they’re ready for the challenges of winter!