QUESTION
A relative has a Missouri Fox Trotter mare that has foundered.  We are attempting to find out everything we can about this subject to keep the horse as comfortable as possible.  X-rays and treatments have been performed in the past; however, each year her problems seem a little worse.  I have volunteered to do research. The current vet and farrier are very good but I thought it might be valuable to get the opinion of the experts for this breed of horse. Is there a web site you recommend that is comprehensive on this subject?  How often should hooves be trimmed?  They grow extremely fast and crack.  I noticed you recommend shoeing for horses that never leave the pasture in one of the questions and answers on the web site.  Why would shoeing help? What feed, if any, should be given this type of horse.  We were told she should never be given anything that contains oats. What is your opinion? What is the relationship between foundering and bahiagrass?  I have seen conflicting reports. Unfortunately, our knowledge is limited.  Any and all guidance will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.
Alice Jones

ANSWER

Hooves need to be trimmed and reset at least once a month. In severe cases of laminitis I resection the foot and build a temp hoof with body putty. I keep them in a shoe that will support the boney column and not allow the leg to go through the hoof. In many cases this requires over a year to completely regrow the hoof. I learned this treatment from my grandfather over 55 yrs ago. I have studied and worked with several veterinarians over the years and still confer and work in the field several times a year.
The Drs at New Bolton Center in Penna have done a resection on Barbaro. Here is a good link to research in addition to hosslogic.com.   http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro.htm
I don't know anything about Bahiagrass. I keep my clients off of any grass while it is lush and growing.
I recommend not feeding anything with sugar or a high level of estrogen in it. Have had no problem with oats in moderation.

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This is the best advise that I know.
 
Bob