Frog Growth

Hi  Dr. T ,
Thank you for all of your past e mails and advice.   I have another question.  Why do my horse's frogs appear to be shrinking?   Everything else is good, the walls are thin and there is some mild separation in the hoof and sole wall.  There is no thrush and the trim is good.  I don't see any new frog growth.  It just appears to be shrinking?  I appreciate your input.
- D

Hi D,
I don't have pic's to go on here, but generally, frogs will "shrink" in drier weather or when they aren't being used normally.  They respond to use/pressure like the rest of the hoof.  Many, many horses have poor tissue inside the heel area that is responsible for producing the frog, so it could be that you are seeing what the hoof is able and not able to produce?   Using a set of pads with a frog support pad inserted will help increase good stimulation to this area and promote better growth through improved function.  Send pic's if you like and I'll try to give you more specifics. Dr. TT

Comments

[Lynn Davis]

I've had a similar problem, fortunately not that severe due to wet conditions. I've had the farrier par away the frog down to good frog tissue however I don't fee Coppertox is eradicating the problem. I've been using it for 10 days now, and prior to that I was using another thrush remedy. I believe he is sore behind when working. He has shoes on front, bare behind. He is out during the day when weather permit, but it is wet a lot of the time. Any suggestions.