“Half Round” Insert Revolutionizes Hoof Care

“Half Round” Insert Revolutionizes Hoof Care LIVESTOCK Horses/Mules AIM Half Rounds are like orthopedics for horses says Sterling Berry who co-created and markets them for the business she owns with her mother and co-founder Midge Berry Made of the same polyurethane used in orthopedic shoe inserts for people Midge Berry came up with the half round shape It fits inside the horseshoe and is secured with a self-adhering bandage “It has a Durometer measurement of Shore 00 of 25 so it’s very soft like a gummy bear ” Sterling Berry says The polyurethane product absorbs impact has breathability and is reusable With the flat side against the hoof an AIM Half Round puts pressure on the frog and sole to increase blood flow while allowing the horse to shift its weight off a bruise abscess or sore area of the foot “The half rounds should only be used when the horse is stabled because they are soft and will break up ” Berry says “People put them on their horses after competition or anytime a horse needs relief for its feet ” About 2 1/2 in thick at the center point the half round is designed to last through one shoe cycle They sell in pairs in 3 sizes 3 4 and 5-in for between $125 and $145 through the AIM Equine website The cost is less than hoof packing which is also more labor intensive Berry notes When the horse is stabled slip the half round inside the shoe and wrap it Remove the half round the next morning before letting the horse out The U S -made product is shelf stable to keep handy for emergencies Veterinarians and farriers use it for horses with laminitis and other ailments Berry says Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Midge and Sterling Berry Crystal Lake Ill ph 630 212-4004; www aimequine com; info@aimequine com

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