Hi Barbara,

Sorry, I'll need to post the photo for you as this group only allows Moderators to post photos.

When you take the photo, try not to get too close to the foot with the camera as that usually results in a blurry image.

Regarding the trim time, shortening the interval would definitely help. Will also need to be more aggressive in what is done, in a targeted way. Due to the length of time this has been an issue, it's likely there is some damage present in the coronary band but at this point that's going to be a chicken-or-egg question. Moving forward, it will be interesting to see whether getting the trim tight will allow any existing damage to the coronary band to heal fully or whether a defect will remain.

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Lavinia
Jan 2005, RI

Moderator/ECIR Support

Dr. Kellon,

Lavinia has uploaded photos in which I tried to show a closer view of the coronary band (marked LF_Coronary Band).   There is most definitely a defect or damage there because the hoof has not grown out connected front-to-back in the 9 months I've had her.   Since it appears unlikely that the crack will ever grow out, the question becomes what do I do to keep the back part from becoming more damaged and growing incorrectly or splitting off.  It does not seem to have any effect on her movement and she does not appear to be in any pain from it.  Even when I poke around under the hoof with a dental pick to clean it out.

Thanks,

Barbara Rosensteel
https://ecir.groups.io/g/Hoof/album?id=278973

Getting the mechanics corrected (and maintained correct) is going to play a major role in minimizing ongoing damage. Making sure the diet is tight, so that all the building blocks for creating new hoof are available in the right quantities, is the other major player. After that, time to allow new hoof growth to replace the severely damaged material.

Only then will you know how this will play out long-term. I suspect there will always be the tendency to split anytime the trim deviates even slightly form being optimal, so something to keep in mind.

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Lavinia
Jan 2005, RI

Moderator/ECIR Support