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Does My Horse Need Pads?
- martinthefarrier
- Feb 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 25
What Are Horse Pads and What Do They Do?
Pads are an incredibly useful tool in the world of hoof care. They serve a variety of purposes, primarily providing support and protection for your horse's hooves, especially when used with a packing material underneath the pad.
Support and Protection
Enhanced Support: Pads help distribute pressure evenly across the hoof, which is particularly beneficial for horses with specific hoof issues. For instance, a laminitic pony—a pony suffering from inflammation of the laminae in the hoof—can greatly benefit from pads. In such cases, dental impression material is often placed over the frog (the V-shaped part of the hoof) to help alleviate the load from the front part of the hoof, which tends to become sore.
Shock Absorption: Pads can act as a cushion, absorbing shock and reducing the impact on your horse's hooves. This is especially important for horses that work on hard or rough surfaces.
Protection from Elements: Pads provide a barrier against environmental elements such as rocks, debris, and moisture, which can be particularly helpful in harsh weather conditions.
Correction of Incorrect Hoof Pastern Angle and Pedal Bone De-rotation. When the back part of the foot becomes compromised, frog support pads, along with the correct under pad packing, can often re-establish the proper use of the frog and digital cushion and gradually correct the angle of the pedal bone.
In Conjunction with Packing Material:
Using pads alongside a packing material, like Red Horse Artimud, ensures that the hoof is well-supported and cushioned. The packing material helps fill in the gaps between the hoof and the pad, providing additional comfort and stability.
By using pads, you can help ensure your horse's hooves stay healthy and comfortable, allowing them to perform at their best.
Does Your Horse Need Hoof Pads? Here's How to Tell
Hoof pads can be a real game-changer for horses with certain hoof conditions. Here's when your horse might need them:
Crushed heels: Over time, shoeing with open heel shoes and lack of frog support can lead to failure of the back 3rd of the foot.
Thin Soles: Horses with thin soles often benefit from hoof pads, as they provide extra cushioning and protection.
Bruising: If you notice noticeable bruising on the sole, pads can help absorb impact and prevent further injury.
Sensitivity to Hard Ground: Horses that are sensitive to hard ground can find relief with the added support of hoof pads.
Discomfort on Rocky Surfaces: Pads can make a world of difference for horses that experience discomfort on rocky or uneven terrain.
Quarter Cracks: Pads can help stabilize the hoof and reduce the strain that contributes to quarter cracks by load sharing around the shoe and pad.
Pain on Uneven Terrain: If your horse shows signs of pain when walking on uneven terrain, especially if they have a history of hoof issues like laminitis or navicular disease, hoof pads might be necessary.
De-rotated pedal bone: When the pedal bone is sat at a negative angle within the hoof capsule, tilted backwards
It's always best to consult with your farrier to assess your horse's specific needs and determine if hoof pads are the right choice. They can provide tailored advice and ensure your horse's hooves are well-cared for.
How Pads Can Help with Hoof Distortion
Correcting Hoof Angles: Hoof pads can help improve and encourage the correct hoof angle, promoting better overall hoof health.
Why Hoof Pads Could be Beneficial for Your Horse.
Hoof pads offer significant benefits, including extra support and cushioning for thin soles, bruising, and sensitivity to hard or rocky surfaces. They improve hoof distortions, correct foot angles, and support caudal hoof function, ensuring your horse moves comfortably. Pads also prevent dirt and bacteria build-up, reducing the risk of infections.
By working with your farrier to assess your horse's needs, incorporating hoof pads can enhance their comfort and performance, safeguarding their health and quality of life.
