In any case, you are still confounded about which ones are the best decisions for your four-legged companions.
Try not to WORRY since you are here and we are prepared to enable you to illuminate this issue.
Understanding the best horse soaking boot ?
Why soak the horse’s feet?
As mentioned above, soaking boots are used to immerse the horse’s hoofor limb to treat abscesses, thrust, fungus, and yeast. This action is also described to offer relief for bruising and speed healing in the bare hoof.
According to some professionals, soaking the feet before barefoot trimming accelerates the trimming process since the hoofs are easier to handle. Also, this might loosen overlaid bars and displace retained sole.
However, remember not to soak too often unless there is a particular reason. It is best to leave the feet as nature intended. (we will explain in the next part)
How long to soak feet?
To treat abscess or soreness, you should soak about 20-30 minutes two or more times a day. If necessary, use hot water.
For softening a hoof to trim, the best time is about 30 minutes to an hour instantly before trimming.
For loosening or displacing the sole, you should soak 30-60 minutes and then do exercises like lunging in a soft sand or dirt padlock to remove the softened tissue.
Why does hoof soaking become dangerous?
Let’s turn back to the issue why you don’t soak the hoof too often except for a specific reason.
If you submerge your horse’s hoof in a liquid for a long time, it can remove the natural protective coating supplied via transpiration. Over-time soaking also reduces the whole hoof structure and hurts the healthy hoof tissue.
So, to avoid a hoof soaking disaster, we suggest you should follow our five golden rules below.
#1 – Remove debris from voids
Before washing the hoof, you need to use a hoof pick and brush to remove trapped debris from voids. This clears blocked ways for the soaking solution to enter deep into the hoof and reach the pathogens.
#2 – Wash hoof
Before starting any soaking session, it is best to thoroughly wash off hard surface dirt with soapy water to prevent contaminating the soaking solution.
#3 – Use boots designed for soaking
These horse boots are often injection shaped in one piece and made in different sizes. Choose the one that is fit perfect to use less soaking solution. (Don’t stop here because we will guide you how to measure later)
#4 – Avail commercial soaking preparation
Make sure you use the product that is suggested for hoof soaking and always read the labels to ensure the ingredients are not harmful or caustic.
Never utilize household products for soaking because they might cause serious damage.
#5 – Reduce the soaking time
As outlined above, the best soaking time is about 30 minutes and no more than twice a day. If the hoof becomes punchy and soft, STOP doing instantly.
Meanwhile, if you are treating a controlled soak, it is okay for longer contact time so that soaking will be more effective.
How to measure the exact size of hoof boot for the horse?
When it comes to the size of hoof boots, it is necessary to match the length and width of the horse’s hoof to the hoof of the boot size. Besides, remember that the front hoofs tend to be more round and wider than the hind ones.
How to do?
- Firstly, measure the width of the horse’s hoof across the bottom at the widest point.
- Continue measuring the length from toe to buttress line of the heel.
- Then compare the measurements with the size chart for the boot. If the measurements are millimeters, use the metric size chart. On the contrary, use the imperial size chart for the inches.
- The length and width measurements should be fit the same boot size. If they indicate different boot sizes, make sure to choose the larger boot size.
- Lastly, don’t forget to measure each horse foot because one is sometimes larger than its pair.
How to use the soaking boot?
In fact, it is not too hard to use these soaking boots for your horses.
First of all, you need to add water and soaking solution to the boot after placing the horse’s foot inside. Then tighten the boot with the straps and buckles gently to soak the infected area.
Later, check whether the boot is snug enough to avoid falling off. Of course, don’t over tighten the boot or your horse feels uncomfortable.
After that, remove the hoof soaking boot and gently towel dry. Make sure to dry the pastern thoroughly.
Tips to consider after buying the soaking boots
- Always keep the packaging that comes with the boots, read all advice from the manufacturer, and examine photos as shown by the manufacturer carefully.
- Take a picture of the soaking boots on the horse’s feet and then remove them. Decide whether you are pleased with the fit and size. If not, contact the manufacturer for an exchange.
- Set a quiet hour with the horse to fit the boots for the first time. Make sure to tie safely or have a partner hold him while doing.
- Don’t forget to practice applying and removing the boots for a couple of time. This makes your horse feel accustomed to the procedure.
- Don’t pay for the most expensive boots if this is your first purchase. Just start on the less expensive one and see whether your horse likes to wear or not.
Time to make your decision
It is an excellent idea to buy the best horse soaking boots that is large enough to deal with all your horses. If possible, it should be easy enough for you to avail on a frequent basis.
The soaking boot often depends on your specific demands.
If you are interested in keeping the boot on the horse while it is being treated, you should opt for the StepnSoak-911. It is because this product is high enough and comes with straps and buckles to keep the boot in place well.
Or you can reread all our top choices above and then pick the one you want most. Don’t worry since they are the best of the best that we’ve spent lots of time testing and researching.
Remember to let us know which soaking boot works out for you by leaving your comments in the box below.
We’d love to hear.
