Repair Hoof Cracks With Glue

Repair Hoof Cracks With Glue DAIRY EQUIPMENT & IDEAS Dairy Equipment & Ideas 18-6-33 "We often repair cracks or chips in horse's hooves with glue. The idea would work on other livestock, too," says Heather Smith Thomas, Salmon, Idaho. "Toe cracks, quarter cracks and heel cracks start in the hoof wall - usually from a chip or split - and travel upward. Horses with serious cracks must be trimmed frequently to relieve pressure on the crack and keep it from splitting farther. It's often difficult to `grow out' a bad crack because it's nearly impossible to take all the pressure off to keep the crack from spreading. The horse may need to be shod in order to grow out the crack. "We've found that small cracks can be stopped with a strong, fast-drying epoxy-type glue that holds the cracked area together and fills the space while protecting the sensitive tissues underneath. A veterinarian can recommend the best type of glue - a non-toxic one that won't create too much heat while setting up. "Even with glue or plastic filler, the foot must still be trimmed often until the crack grows out and the glue may have to be re-applied several times." Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Heather Smith Thomas, Box 215, Salmon, Idaho 83467 (ph 208 756-2841).

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