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Discussion on Shoeing Back feet in 2 YO
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Member:
Penner
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 23, 2002 - 2:45 pm:
Hi,
My recently purchased 2.5 yo Qtr horse gelding has been trimmed on all 4, shoes on front.
The previous owner (who raised him, his 3 siblings, & the mother) said don't put shoes on the back at this young age, just keep him trimmed (to prevent deformities).
My eventual plans for him, after we get the basics down in the next 3-4 years), is to train him to be a head rope horse. I know he will need shoes to prevent slipping in the arena while he is pulling the steer).
So, when DO I put shoes on the back, at 4-5 years old when he is done growing? Its pretty hard rocky ground here, & I don't want stone bruises, either.
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Saturday, Nov 23, 2002 - 5:56 pm:
Why did she say to not put shoes on this horse? I know of no reason not to if you have a reason for it.
DrO
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Member:
Penner
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Posted on Sunday, Nov 24, 2002 - 2:06 pm:
She said one could introduce problems (wasn't specific, but I'm guessing she meant developmental deformities). Now, granted, he is shod in the front, so her same reasoning could apply.
But (I think) she meant why risk it in the back too, as less of the horses weight is in the back, & he will be doing only light work for a long while.
However, I am worried about the stone bruise issue (have seen it a lot out here, even with just easy walking on the trails).
So, I think I will probably rear shoe him, unless theres something I'm really missing here.
Thanks Dr O for your reply!
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Monday, Nov 25, 2002 - 5:53 am:
I think it is true that improper shoeing at this age can result in deformity, for instance the contracted heels that come from the heavy padding up of young TWH. As long as the shoes are well applied, with lots of room for heel expansion, things should be fine.
DrO
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Member:
Chrism
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Posted on Monday, Nov 25, 2002 - 11:38 am:
From my persective, there is not need to apply shoes unless you think the horse needs them to protect hoof wear or for some special purpose. So, if your fellow isn't over wearing his hind hooves with the work you are doing, leaving him unshod until his work requires shoes is okay and saves a few dollars.
Additionally, I've known some boarding barns to not allow horses in group turnout situations to wear hind shoes as a safety.
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