Casting is another option to transition a horse from shoes to boots or if the horse is sore. Casting with pads or dental impression helps to grow a healthier frog, expand contracted heels, help to grow out wall cracks and separations. It protects the foot, is breathable and you can still soak the foot if there was thrush or any other problem. You can ride in casts in the arena or soft terrain - real rocky terrain might shorten the lifespan of the cast. We use casts in intervals of two to four weeks if necessary.
Boots are a great way to transition a horse from shoes to bare feet without missing a ride. In fact the more movement the horse can get to develop a healthy hoof, meaning the frog, bars and sole, digital cushion and internal structures the faster the transition time and the happier the horse and rider!
We also use boots to make our horse comfortable after injuries to the hoof, soreness and lameness, abscesses or just plain thin soles. Sometimes pads help to increase circulation, contracted heels or if we want to stimulate the frog area or take the pressure off.
There are different styles available and some fit a certain hoof shape better. Some are more for riding, others more for rehabilitating and pasture turn out. I try to have a variety in stock to best meet the needs of your horse.