Horses in the wild encountered many conditions over the years that they roamed free.   They would graze, traveling miles each day and come into many conditions including deserts, mountains, valleys, and plains.   They had opportunities to stand in water, on grass, in forests, and on hot dry stones and rocks.   Today, our horses live in the environment we select for them.   We can promote optimal hoof health and that will make them more able to handle a variety of conditions.

Those of you who know me understand that I always preach some basics.  Those basics include good nutrition, always available fresh water, balanced trims, supplements as indicated, and allowing the hoof to move easily and be exposed to elements much like they were in the wild.   Since many of us do our best to avoid mud and standing water in our pastures, we must take into account that hooves are not intended to be 100% dry all of the time.  Whether the wild horses were crossing water or standing in it casually, they did get moisture from the earth.  This even included exposure to snow and ice.  We can simulate natural exposure by allowing our water trough to run over when we fill it so that there is moisture for the horse to stand in.   We can also see that they have an opportunity to cross water when we ride.  Moisture is important to hoof health.   In excess, it can be a concern, but it is, nonetheless, an essential nutrient.

I also promote the use of supplements that are known for hoof health.  Talk to me about what will specifically benefit your horse in his situation.   I will recommend according to your personal and individual needs.

I also am a firm believer that most horses can go barefoot most of the time.   A horse with good hoof structure can withstand the rigors of a variety of terrains.   Those who are still working to achieve optimal hoof integrity can use a trail boot.   Shoes are not necessary and can actually slow the progress you may be making with keeping the hoof functional.  Shoes restrict movement of the hoof wall and this slows the blood flow through the structures.   

Below, look at a picture of a horse walking on rocks.   Occasionally, small chips may occur if the exposure is extensive, but this does not damage the integrity of the hoof and as the hoof becomes stronger with good diet and appropriate trims and supplements, you will find that the hoof can withstand more and more.  In fact, a good natural trim will allow the horse to "self trim" to a certain extent and these "chips" are not bad!