Foot care is essential to ensure your horse remains sound and should be as routine as feeding and watering. Proper foot care and reasonable management can help prevent lameness. Most foot care maintenance can be done by you however it is important to contact your veterinary surgeon or farrier if you are unsure.

Below is a diagram showing the main parts of a horses hoof.

Disease organisms concentrate where animals are confined, so cleanliness is important. Horses kept in a stall or small pen should have their feet picked or cleaned daily. Horses at pasture should also have regular hoof inspections and be picked and cleaned out. A fine bristled brush is also useful for cleaning the sole, frog, and hoof wall.

A good protocol to follow is described below:

1. Begin by picking out the heel and use the hoofpick from heel to toe to remove dirt, mud and other debris. It is also important to clean out the cleft between the sole and the frog.
2. Once cleaned check the condition of the hoof in particular the frog.
3. Inspect the shoes to make sure they are in good condition and that there are no missing or loose nails. It is also a good idea to ensure the nails aren't projecting beyond the top of the hoof.

Your veterinary surgeon can advise you on an appropriate hoof conditioner or sealant to apply to the hoof. Also your vet should be contacted if you have any doubts about the health of your horses hoof.

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