Equine Hoof Anatomy

Equine ScienceExternal Anatomy Features

Equine Hoof Anatomy

Equine Science

External Anatomy Features

The outer layer of a horse’s hoof is similar to what in a human?

Answer: The finger nail

What is the hoof largely composed of?

Answer: Keratin

Is the hoof alive?

Answer: Yes, the hoof grows at a rate of .2 inches per month on the

average.

The Hoof From the Bottom

1. Bulb of Heel2. Bar(s)3. Sole4. Wall5. Toe6. White Line

7. FrogA. Central grooveB. RidgeC. Lateral grooveD. Apex

Insensitive/ Sensitive Laminae

1. Insensitive laminae

2. Sensitive laminae

3. Laminar corium

Hoof Care

• Hoof needs to be trimmed because it is growing– Trim/re-shod every 6 to 8 weeks

• Farrier: person who shoes or cares for horse’s feet.

• Thrush – bacterial infection in the sole of the hoof around the frog. – Signs: Bad smell! Frog peeling off– What to do: apply antifungal medicine

Do horses wear Nike’s?

Answer: Yes!

YES!!!

Types of Shoes

• Horses are just like athletes, they have special shoes for different jobs:

The Hoof

1. Digital Flexor Tendon

2. Sesamoidean ligament

3. Digital extensor tendon

4. Long pastern bone

5. Short pastern bone

6. Coronary corium

7. Pedal bone

8. Laminar corium

9. Wall

10. White Line

11. Sole

12. Plantar cushion

13. Navicular bone