1 day ago1 min read

Horse-man-ship Mentality – What is White Line Disease in a horse’s foot?

Horse-man-ship Mentality – What is White Line Disease in a horse’s foot?

Cappel Cowboy Wisdom

White Line Disease. This is a mysterious problem that is found in horse feet that have separation between the hoof wall and the sole that creates a pocket for an anaerobic fungus to occur. It is uncertain whether it is a bacterial or fungal or a combination of both. The cause of the condition is also largely unknown. Some suggest that it is faulty hoof conformation, concussion on hard ground, leverage created by overly long feet which leads to distortion, moisture conditions, stress, inadequate nutrition, lack of exercise, in other words, nobody knows.

Fortunately, it is rarely seen in my personal practice. I think because I strive to keep the horses mechanically balanced which in itself puts less stress onto the hoof wall.

However; I have seen some of it and all of the people that I put confidence in their opinion, those being farriers Mike Walsh, Missouri, Donny Castor, New Mexico, Gene Ovinick, Arizona, Shawn Melton, Texas, all say that removal of the hoof wall, allowing the affected area exposure to air is the best solution.

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Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

Cappel Training and Shoeing

D/C