EasyCare Customer Help Desk

EasyCare Dealers

Question: Do you have Dealers or Distributors that sell your products?

Answer: To find a Dealer in your area that sells our EasyCare Easyboots and boot accessories please visit our website.  You need to enter your zip code and the Search Result will display the name, location, phone number and distance to your nearest dealer.  You can also call 1-800-447-8836 where we would be happy to help you locate a dealer in your area or take your order.

Equine Affaire-Pomona, CA

A couple of us from EasyCare will be at the Equine Affair in Pomona, California February 1st through the 4th.  If you are going to be attending, come visit us at our booth!  We will be in building 8 section 873-879. 

We will be more than happy to help you with sizing, fitting, show you our new products for 2007 and answers any questions you may have about our products! 

Hope to see you there!!

Barbaro

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was euthanized Monday because of complications from his breakdown at last year's Preakness, ending an eight-month ordeal that prompted an outpouring of support across the country. 

Laminitis, a debilitating and often fatal hoof disease, set in on Barbaro's left hind leg during early July. But even after surgery to remove most of the hoof, the colt showed remarkable progress — to the point that in December, Barbaro's release to the rolling bluegrass hills of a Kentucky horse farm seemed imminent.

It never happened. A series of ailments _ including laminitis in the left rear hoof, an abscess in the right rear hoof, as well as new laminitis in both front feet _ proved too much for the gallant colt.
The combination became too much to overcome. Monday, 254 days after the injury and 268 days after he became a racing hero, Barbaro was put down.

When Richardson checked Barbaro on Monday morning, the eyes that had been so full of life were darker, a sure sign of distress. And after consultation with owners Gretchen and Roy Jackson, the colt was given a heavy dose of a tranquilizer and an overdose of an anesthetic and put down at 10:30 a.m.

"You could see he was upset," said Richardson, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. "That was the difference. It was more than we wanted to put him through."

Barbaro's eight-month ordeal, which made him even more of a hero than he was as a champion on the track, was over.

"I really didn't think it was appropriate to continue treatment because the probability of getting better was so poor," Richardson said.

Fighting back tears, he added: "Barbaro had many, many good days."

"Certainly," Gretchen Jackson said, "grief is the price we all pay for love."

The bay colt underwent nearly two dozen surgeries and other procedures, including cast changes under anesthesia. He spent time in a sling to ease pressure on his legs, had pins inserted and was fitted at the end with an external brace _ extraordinary measures for injuries that most horses never survive.

Weeks of positive reports turned into months. Barbaro was eyeing the mares, nickering, gobbling up his feed and trying to walk out of his stall. But Richardson warned there still could be trouble, and by mid-July, his greatest fear became reality _ laminitis struck Barbaro's left hind leg.

On Sunday, a day after Barbaro's fight for survival had reached a critical point, Richardson compared the various injuries to a "house of cards." One part falls, and the rest start to crumble.

In this case, it was the laminitis that attacked both front feet that left him vulnerable.

"That left him with not a good leg to stand on," Richardson said.

Roy Jackson added: "We just reached a point where it was going to be difficult for him to go on without pain. It was the right decision, it was the right thing to do. We said all along if there was a situation where it would become more difficult for him, then it would be time."

'He Left Us With a Wonderful Gift ... Inspiration, Optimism' 

Barefoot in the Park

A few friends and I decided to spend a day riding in the beautiful Catalina State Park here in Tucson, Arizona.  With me are horse trainer, Robbin McCroskey, Linda and Rey Pablo, myself and our horses (my horse is the paint, Josie).  Here are a few pictures of our barefoot horses booted up with Easyboot Bare boots and Easyboot Epics.  The boots performed excellent as usual, as these are the style of boots we like to use.  There were no rubbing issues, no lost boots and our horses were comfortable and surefooted maneuvering over rocks, man-trail steps, through the washes, etc.  We had so many comments from the people who were hiking the trails...  What are those neat looking things on your horses feet???  We were very happy to explain quickly as we passed them, that our horses travel great as they are "barefoot and booted!"  The ride turned out perfect and the day ended with dinner at El Burrito Patio for us and treats and hay for our horses.  Lots of smiles for all.

Happy Riding...  Hope to see you on the trail and booted!  Nancy Fredrick from EasyCare.

A New Pony or New Epics?

I thought you might be interested to receive some feedback as we have now purchased and are using some Easy Boot Epics with the comfort pad insoles.

I have attached a small video clip that was taken on the third day of wearing her new boots.  As you can see, she absolutely loves them!!  They completely transformed her from very foot sore and weary, back into to her old self again.

She is a very playful Pony full of life but we hadn’t seen that for over a year as she struggled with her problems.

They have stayed on despite her new found youth and have shown no signs of rubbing at all.  She stays in a stable at night with rubber cushion floor and has her boots on before she goes out in the morning.  We did find them very easy to put on at first although she is now becoming so excited to go out that getting her to stand still is a bit of a challenge!!

We could not believe just how much your boots transformed her and how good they are.  We will certainly be using them for our other Horses and we are definitely converts.  It is hard to believe how we got by without them for so long before!

I am sure you have heard many such stories before but we felt we should let you know what an incredible difference your boots have made to her and how much we appreciate that.  We have been through many months of despair to see her suffering and it is so pleasing to see that sparkle back again.

Download pony_new_boots.mpg 

Many thanks.

Mike & Aimee

Boa Boot Repair

Boa Lace Replacement

I've been more than satisfied with the performance of my Boa boots, which I've been using four or five times a week since I bought them months ago.  I recently had a wire break, so I bought a new pair of boots, and also a replacement lace to fix the old boot.  My husband is very handy, but couldn't get the lace to feed into the lace guides at all.  He tried to clear the line by inserting a metal strip, which is now stuck in the boot.  I would like to return the boot to you for repair, and understand it is not under warranty.  I'd just like to have the spare pair on hand.  Please let me know the estimated cost of repair, and should I send both boots for new laces, as I've been using them for at least 3 months, maybe more.

Thank you for a great product, and for your attention.

That's great news the Boas are working for you! The lace replacement may be viewed on line if you choose http://www.easycareinc.com/education/videos.aspx or send them directly to us for the repair. If you have proof of purchase and the boots are under the 90 day warranty period we will replace the laces free of charge, otherwise the cost of the laces are $5.00 ea and the repair cost is $3.00 per boot, plus shipping and handling.

Thank You for your patronage and Happy Riding!

about EasyCare

Here at EasyCare, it's all about the horse and their human partners. Our business is manufacturing and distributing proven equine products that will enhance performance, provide protection, increase comfort for the horse and rider, and enrich the overall human-horse experience. Throughout five thousand years of domestication, the horse has had a more significant impact on human history than any other animal. Our goal is to help make the future of the horse/rider relationship as fulfilling and exciting as the past. EasyCare constantly  improves their boots and the given testimonials http://www.easycareinc.com/education/testimonials.aspx about our EasyCare Easyboots http://www.easycareinc.com/education/whatboot.aspx are proof that we have some awesome boots on the market and for our 4 legged Customers it can mean being able to walk with comfort and without pain.

Another Boot Success Story!

I just completed a 25 mile Limited Distance ride in Sonoita, Arizona on a thoroughbred. This gelding has been barefoot for only a few months and we were told this horse probably would not ever be sound without metal shoes. Apparently this thoroughbred has thin walls, and poor hoof quality. Well, he was very tender just walking around in his stall once the shoes were pulled, after all, he is 10 years old and has had shoes all his life. I have been conditioning him in Epics for less than 8 weeks, and we completed the 25 miler healthy and sound with no metal shoes and wearing the Easyboot Epics!! I thank you EasyCare as this is not my horse, he belongs to a friend who cannot ride him anymore. I have done everything to convince her to go barefoot, and this weekend proved to her it can be done!! She was well pleased and the gelding will continue to go barefoot. Thanks again! Sabrina Liska

Winter Horse Care

Do horses grow winter coats according to the temperature?

Or light?  

Horses grow thick winter coats for warmth, but it isn't the drop in temperature that triggers the hair to grow, as you might think. It's the decreased daylight of shorter days that stimulates the coat. That's why your horse will begin fluffing up even when it's still warm. That is also why some owners keep a lamp burning in their horses' stalls long after darkness to "trick" their systems into believing its still summer.

Winter Riding Tips 

* Frozen ground, cold temperatures and tight tendons can result in leg injuries. Winter riding requires longer, slower warm ups to prevent injuries and longer cool downs to ward off chills.

* Ride in familiar areas. Snow can hide hidden holes, ice or other hazards that can cause a misstep or injury.

* Avoid sudden stopping and standing during strenuous activity in cooler temperatures. Warmed up muscles that are brought to a standstill can cramp up painfully.  Slow walking to gradually cool the muscle mass will prevent cramps.

* Very cold air can bother your horse’s mucous membranes or lungs.  If you must ride, keep your horse at a slow pace in temperatures lower than 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Have a wonderful and safe ride season from all of us at Easycare!

For more info click here.

Winter Horse Care

Winter Health Tips for Your Horse

Be sure that your horse’s water buckets are free of ice and warm enough for them to drink.  Horse’s have a tendency to not want to drink very cold water when it is cold outside.  In fact, recent research has shown a 40 percent increase in water intake when horses are offered warm water on winter days.

Your horse needs 5 to 15 gallons of water a day, and especially in the winter, when the only food around is dry hay, a reduction in water can bring about colic, fast.  Many vets say they can even predict when the boom of impaction colic emergencies will come, right after a change in the weather when water is either unpalatably cold, or frozen up.

Differences between Easyboot Bare and Easyboot Epic

Very often the question asked is:  What is the difference between the Easyboot Bare and the Easyboot Epic.

First of all lets give the similarities of the two boots.  The boots fit below the hairline.  The sizing of the two boots are the same.  Both have semi-aggressive treads.  Both are used by endurance riders.  Both have been tested in extreme conditions with over 250 miles and outwear traditional shoes 3 to 1.  Both come with gaiters attached.  The gaiters can be trained the same way.  The hardware is interchangeable and it is very easy to convert your Easyboot Epic into a Easyboot Bare or vice versa.  Also new in 2007, both boots will come with the low profile comfort strap.

The differences are:

Different tread patterns-- The sole of the EasyBoot Bare is patterned after the barefoot horse.  It flexes and gives very much like the bare hoof.

Closure systems-- The EasyBoot Epic has the standard buckle and cable system.  The EasyBoot Bare has a bungee system that applies constant pressure to the hoof.

Flexibility for the barefoot horse.-- The Easyboot Bare is designed to stretch and flex, mimicking the movements of the naturally bare hoof.

Ease of application—The EasyBoot Bare is a little harder to apply than the standard EasyBoot Epic, however the EasyBoot Bares provide a simple, close-fitting boot that constantly adjusts to the hoof.

A great Epic Testimonial

People are talking about our boots - Click here!

Hoof Boot sizing Question

Question: Where do I need to measure to get the correct size of boot my horse needs?  Also my horse has different size feet, could I have different size boots or would I have to buy 2 pairs?

Answer: To ensure ordering the correct size boots, you have to measure the width of the hoof across the bottom at the widest part.  Then measure the length of the hoof from the toe to the buttress line of the heel.  The buttress line is the furthest weight bearing point of the heel where the hoof wall ends.  Do not include the heel bulbs in the measurements.  If the length and width measurements indicate different sizes, select the larger size.  If the width and length are different by more than one size, EasyCare boots are not recommended.

The Old Mac's and Boa Boots are sold in pairs only, the Easyboot, Easyboot Epic, Grip and the Easyboot Bare are sold per boot.

Click here to visit our website.  Here you can determine which "EasyCare Hoof Boots" are best for your horse.

Please note, sizing can vary depending on the boot.

Getting the right size

EasyCare Hoof Boot Size Calculator

We get many calls each day requesting help with measurements.  The EasyCare Hoof Boot Size Calculator is a great tool for calculating which size boot you'll need. Just type in your horses hoof measurements and it'll automatically calculate the size you'll need for each of our boots.  Easyboot (New and pre 2005 versions), Epic, Bare, Old Macs, Boas and Soakers.  You do need Microsoft Excel to use this.

BOOT THE FRONT OR REAR OR BOTH?

Question:

Can any of the boots (Boas, Easy Boots, etc.) be used on the hind feet or are they all made for the front?

Answer:

All styles of our boots can be used on the front hooves as well as the rear.  This will depend on the terrain that you are riding in. Extreme rocky conditions would be best suited to have all four hooves booted.  If conditions are sandy with some rock, you can choose to boot only the front.  Again, the hoof condition in the rear will determine to boot or not.  My rule is to boot what I think I will need , but take extra just in case!

Our boot styles, Easyboot , Epic, Bare, Grip, Boa and Soaker are not side specific.  The Original Old Mac and Old Mac G-2 are specific to right side and left side.

Take the necessary steps to learn your boots and you will have a fun ride on the trail!  Happy Riding...

Horse Rescuers need equipment

This is an article from the local newspaper about the Equine Voices Rescue & Sanctuary, which is located in Green Valley, south of Tucson Arizona.

If you received a new saddle for Christmas but the old one is still good, why not donate the old one to Equine Voices Rescue & Sanctuary?

Call 520-975-7007 for more information or for pickup of the equipment.

The horse rescue group is seeking donations of used tack, saddles, boots, blankets, feeders and any horse related equipment to sell at a fundraiser on March 3rd.  All donations are tax-deductible, and donors will receive receipts.

Equine Voices is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving Premarin mares and foals from slaughter.  These are mares used in the production of hormone-replacement therapy drugs for women.

Click here for more information. 

Want to help out a rescue or organization closer to you?  Click here for other websites.

A FRESH LOOK FOR 2007

New Easyboot Packaging

We will be updating all packaging for the Easyboot line of hoofboots.  The Easyboot, Easyboot Epic, Easyboot Grip, Easyboot Bare and Easyboot Custom will all have new packaging for 2007.  The new packaging will help EasyCare retail dealers display the boots better for the upcoming season.

Here are a couple shots of some of the new boxes.

We will be updating all packaging for the Easyboot line of hoofboots.  The Easyboot, Easyboot Epic, Easyboot Grip, Easyboot Bare and Easyboot Custom will all have new packaging for 2007.  The new packaging will help EasyCare retail dealers display the boots better for the upcoming season.

Here are a couple shots of some of the new boxes.

Quote for the day

The air of heaven is that which blows between a horses ears.

Old Arabian Proverb

Gaited Horse Owner Seeks Answers

Question: My question is.  I have a Paso Fino who is fairly tender footed.  She grows hoof extremely slowly so I don't like the idea of nailing shoes on her for fear she should rip one off.  I was wondering if you have had any other gaited horses use any of your boots and if so, has it affected their gait at all?  We live in Ontario which is very muddy at the moment, so I was wondering if you could recommend which boot I should be looking at for general trail riding.
Thanking you in advance and looking forward to a solution to our problem.

Thank you for your recent inquiry.

You can find several testimonials on individuals using EasyBoots for their Paso Fino's.  Click here and here to read a couple testimonials about Paso Fino's using Easyboots. 

In regards to the mud question, all of our boots can be utilized in this type of terrain situation.  Click here to review all of our boots and make your best determination.

Your horse's hooves are our number one priority. 

Bare Testimonial

... I bought a pair of Bares from you about 4 weeks ago and was so impressed with both product and service, I am back to order another pair.  I have been happily showing them off to my aussie friends and my farrier. They know how I have been struggling to keep my horse sound.  Regular hoof trimming and these boots have helped us make big progress.

But best of all, my horse is happy again after many months of tender feet!

She is wearing the boots during the day in the field and goes barefoot in her sand yard and shelter at night.  That gives her hooves a chance to air.

She is now cantering about her field again.  As soon as she sees me approaching with the boots in the morning, she positions herself at the 'booting up spot' and starts lifting her feet ready for application - all without halters or leads!  That sounds like a genuine vote of approval from 'the main user'!

BUY A PAIR AND A SPARE!

THAT'S RIGHT!!!  Buy a Pair & a Spare.  For the month of January Get a free gearbag with the online purchase of any three Easyboot, Epic, Bare or Grip boots.  Limit one per customer.  Excludes Bargain Bin items.  Get'em while you can.  These nifty bags won't last for long!

WIN A FREE PAIR OF CUSTOM BOOTS!

  

Want to win a free pair of EasyCare Custom hoofboots?  Here is the question.  How many different padding combinations can be made with EasyCare's new Comfort Pad System and who inspired their development?  In order to enter, send an email to Karen with your answers.  You can submit your answers for the next week, up until January 16, 2007.  The name of one lucky winner will be drawn from all of the correct entries to receive a free pair of Custom Easyboots.  Valued at over $150.00, you don't want to miss your opportunity to have boots made with your choice of options.  You'll be able to choose tread pattern, heelstrap and type of buckle.  Good luck!   

EasyUp Buckle System

The new EasyUp Buckle has passed our testing program and will be ready for sale soon.

The EasyUp buckle is the Easyboot buckle of the future.  It fastens in the “UP” position, offers many cable adjustments, is easy to open and close, has easy cable adjustments and stays secure after fastening.  Upgrade your boots to the EasyUp Buckle System.  Either install yourself, or ship your Easyboot or Epic back to us for installation.

The EasyUp Buckle will be compatible with the Easyboot, Easyboot Epic, and the Easyboot Grip.  It will also be available as an option on our new Easyboot Custom program (More on the Easyboot Custom program will be announced soon).

The EasyUp Buckle system will be available early 2007.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

"Progress is impossible without change and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything"

George Bernard Shaw

2006 Hoof Boot Contest Winners!

We are pleased to announce the list of winners in the 2006 EasyCare $10,000.00 Hoof Boot Contest which ended on November 30, 2006.   These riders did a great job and worked really hard to achieve their successes and we're really proud of them.  They completed rides ranging from the Tevis Cup, the NSW State Championship 100 and 5 day 250 mile multiday rides like Bryce, Grand Canyon and Shahzada.

Place   Name                   Mileage            Amount Won
1        Dave Rabe             1,715               $4,000.00

2        Becky Hackworth      875           $2,000.00

3        Sue Benson              575                $1,000.00

4        Carol Layton            500              $750.00

5        Joyce Stoffey           375              $650.00

6       Terry Banister           365             $550.00

7       Duncan McLaughlin    350        $450.00

8       Kerry Greear              310             $350.00

9       Corry Clinton             275             $150.00

10     Marilyn Weise            220            $100.00

Dave Rabe finished first in the contest two years in a row and has this to say about using boots on his now barefoot horses:  "The Easyboot Epics and Bares that I used this year worked better than I ever imagined possible.  They were excellent and worked really well for my horses.  I had my shoer trim my horses every few weeks.  This was way better for my horses, their hoof walls are stronger.  The boots were a lot easier to use than I thought they would be and they held up extremely well.  I never had any problem with the gaiters all year.

I thought the Bares were awesome, no worry about buckles.  My horses travel just as well in the boots as they do with shoes on and they are much better off being barefoot.  My horses are kept in a 10 acre pasture with some rocks and they do just as well barefoot as they did with shoes on.  Thanks EasyCare for having the hoof boot contest!  I think your boots are the best thing on the market by far and haven't seen anything even close."

Information on the 2007 Contest: EasyCare will award a total of $10,000 to the riders who complete the most American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) or Australian Endurance Rider Association (AERA) miles during the 2007 AERC ride season (Dec. 1-Nov. 30) using two or four EasyCare hoof boots.  Throughout the year special promotions and discounts will be made available to those participating in the EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest.  Entry forms and more information can be obtained at this link.