How to Harden the Sole of an Equine

Pete Ramey, author of "Making Natural Hoof Care Work," describes the equine sole as "the first line of defense between the horse and the ground." Over time, the sole calluses into a very dense material, with the purpose of protecting the underside of the hoof. Abnormal hoof wear, inappropriate trimming of the sole and wet living conditions all can lead to soft soles, often translating to foot soreness. Left unchecked, soft soles can lead to bruises and abscesses. Deb Greenough, a second generation farrier and former world champion bareback rider, recommends a simple, yet effective, solution for hardening soft soles: a sugardine poultice. A mixture of betadine and simple household sugar, sugardine naturally disinfects while toughening the sole.

Things You'll Need

  • Disposable diaper or puppy housebreaking pad
  • Duct tape
  • Small bowl
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup betadine solution
  • Spoon
  • Vetrap bandaging tape
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a hoof-shaped piece from a disposable diaper or puppy housebreaking pad. The finished piece should be approximately 1 inch larger than the hoof on all sides.

    • 2

      Create a 6-inch by 6-inch pad from duct tape by overlapping strips of duct tape. Add support by adding a second layer perpendicular to the first. Lay the pad adhesive side up until ready to use.

    • 3

      Tie your horse on a clean, dry surface. Clean its foot thoroughly, using a hoof pick and brush.

    • 4

      Combine 1/3 cup betadine solution and 1 cup sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the sugardine mixture has the consistency of paste.

    • 5

      Slather the horse's sole with the sugardine mixture.

    • 6

      Cover the bottom of the foot with the section of diaper or housebreaking pad, absorbent side down.

    • 7

      Wrap the foot up to the pastern with Vetrap bandaging tape. Confirm the wrap is snug, but not too tight, by inserting a finger or thumb at the pastern area.

    • 8

      Cover the bottom of the foot with the duct tape pad, folding the edges up over the hoof wall. Secure any free or loose edges with additional duct tape along the rim of the hoof. As the toe generally wears first, add a bit of duct tape reinforcement to the toe.

    • 9

      Reconfirm the snugness of the bandage. If it is too tight, cut a notch at the top of the Vetrap.

    • 10

      Leave the bandage in place for two days. Replace the bandage if needed for an additional two days. Within four days, the sole should be noticeably improved.