What Is White Line Disease in Donkeys?

When caring for a donkey, it is important to properly inspect their feet and hooves for problems. "Diseases and problems of the feet are all too common in donkeys," according to vethelpdirect.com. White line disease is a common hoof problem found in donkeys.

  1. Identification

    • The "white line" is a part of the base of the donkey's hoof; it's the junction between the hoof wall and the sole. White line disease is a condition that occurs at this part of the donkey's hoof.

    Cause

    • White line disease is caused when rocks and other small particles become lodged in the white line of the donkey's hoof. Occasionally, a bacteria or fungus will begin growing in the hoof.

    Contributing Factors

    • The most significant contributing factor for the disease is a damp or dirty living environment. In addition, the risk of white line disease increases with an inadequate diet, chronic laminitis or inflammation of the hoof, and old age.

    Symptoms

    • White line disease is typically not very painful. However, donkeys with this disease are at a much greater risk for developing an abscess in the hoof, which could cause lameness.

    Treatment

    • For proper treatment of white line disease, the hoof needs to be cleared of debris, cleaned and trimmed as soon as possible. The donkey should then be kept in a clean and dry environment with a healthy supply of food and drinking water.