I don't usually crave pity parties but I kind of am today. We had a fun day riding around the arena going over small jumps, followed by a peaceful walk through the forest and down the road. Halfway along the road I realized Max lost a shoe...again. And it was on the trail...I found it embedded in some damp dirt.
I just cannot believe it. I've tried to do everything right..upgraded him to a stall, moved him to a sand paddock, put him in bar shoes, put him on farriers formula, keratex, farriers fix, no trail rides....wait...oops. Yeah. Stupid stupid stupid!
We did break that rule a couple of times before and his shoes were always on tight. It could be the fact that he's due in a week anyway, and that maybe he loosened the shoe on a rock hidden in the leaves. Whatever the case...farrier's coming in Tuesday probably fuming and saying I'm one of Those owners who would put their own fun before their horses well being. *hangs head in shame*
Maybe something good will come of it. I mentioned it to my BO who is big on barefoot and she put Max in for the vet to look at to evaluate if he could possibly make the transition over to barefoot. I've always hated the fact that he had nails hammered into his hooves...but the farrier is adamant that he needs the support. He's probably right...but that doesn't mean it's the only way.
We will just have to see!
oh no!! what a bummer. fingers crossed that it was just because he's already due for the farrier... trails are such a nice break - for the horse too, not just the rider! - it seems like a shame to not be able to get out and about!
ReplyDeleteIt's a real bummer :( Fortunately he's not lame so there'll be no hitch in our riding…but still kind of disappointing after all our efforts. He loves the trails and looks forward to heading out to the forest after a work-out. Poor guy :( I guess it's kind of the end of trail season now anyway. Hopefully by next spring he'll be ready for some longer trail rides and hunter paces!
DeleteSo sorry to hear about this Carolyn. Don't be too upset, you are doing a lot of good things for Max's hoove's and asking the vet and farrier questions will help too. Everything will work out.
ReplyDeleteYes, I need to have more faith that things will work out for the best in the end. Thanks for reminding me!
DeleteFrustrating! Many horses do great barefoot, maybe he will be one of them.
ReplyDeleteI will be keeping my fingers crossed!!
DeleteHave you tried bell boots on the trail? I use pull on bell boots because I found they were the only ones long enough to help Miles!
ReplyDeleteHe's in bell boots 24/7. I've tried several types and so far this one has worked the best up until now. I'm glad the rubber ones are working out for you and Miles!
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