Queen of Racing
Browse: Home / News / Life at Lane’s End: Time for a Trim
| April 16, 2012

Life at Lane’s End: Time for a Trim

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane's End


It’s that time! Baby Z just had his feet trimmed for the first time. Dr. Scott Morrison is the farrier that trims all foals and yearlings at Lane’s End. He is a veterinarian who specializes in podiatry, and he was kind enough to write this piece explaining the importance of foot management in young horses. Thank you Dr. Morrison!

-Team Z

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane's End

The Horses foot provides several functions such as support, shock absorption, traction and proprioception (ability to feel the ground and negotiate limb position).  In the foal however the foot also plays an important role in limb development.



At birth the hoof is covered with a soft, feathery unpigmented tissue called the perinychium.  This tissue forms a soft covering to prevent the hard hoof capsule from piercing or damaging the mares’ reproductive tract during gestation and the birthing process. This tissue quickly dries out and is worn away during the first couple days after birth.

The newborn hoof is fairly soft and pliable compared to a mature horses hoof. But over the first month it dehydrates and matures to more closely resemble that of an adult horses hoof. The newborn hoof is also perfectly symmetrical at birth. Over time the hoof changes shape in response to the forces above. Limb conformation dictates the shape of the developing hoof. The foal’s hoof goes through various shape changes during the first several months of age. These shape changes closely follow changes in limb conformation and posture.

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane's End

The hoof is designed to serve as a protective barrier for internal sensitive structures as well as provide a base of support and leverage for proper bone, tendon and ligament development. Therefore the shape and integrity of the hoof can have a significant effect on the development of these structures.  The relationship between limb conformation and hoof shape plays an integral role in the conformational development of the growing horse.  Therefore, maintaining a healthy hoof and intervening with special foot management when necessary, is important in the development of the young horse’s limb.  

Routine, proper trimming is the most important element of the foal foot management program. Maintaining a healthy balanced foot is the goal.  Simply preventing a foot from breaking up or becoming misshapen or distorted will go a long way in promoting proper limb development.  However some foals, in spite of routine proper hoof trimming will have a tendency to develop a crooked limb.  In these instances shoes or extensions can be used to provide additional support and influence the forces on the growth plates and encourage straightening of the limb.

The first trim is usually done at one month of age.  But the foal’s feet should be handled and cleaned daily; this will make the first experience with the farrier less stressful. Typically trimming at 3-4 week intervals is sufficient for most foals.  If there is a tendency for the limb to grow crooked or with an angular deformity, the hoof may need to be trimmed more often to prevent the hoof from developing a distortion or adverse shape in response to the abnormal forces, often a 2 week trim schedule is then recommended.  Various shoes can be used to help a hoof support various developmental abnormalities such as: club foot syndrome (contractures), weak tendons (laxity) and angular deformities.
            

-Scott E Morrison, DVM

1,240 comments

  1. The Kennedys in San Diego
    April 16, 2012 at 8:51 am

    Thank you for this fascinating, informative piece. Although he looks quite brave taking the trimming in stride, I am certain it was reassuring to have his mother closeby. Love the photos — Mama and son walking to his first trimming appointment, the procedure underway — ears pricked, mother overseeing and back in the comfort, safety of their stall. You captured it all.

  2. Denise
    April 16, 2012 at 8:51 am

    Look at those ears!!!!!

  3. Susan from Fl
    April 16, 2012 at 8:52 am

    Look how big he is now…& those cute ears :-)…thanx for sharing! Peace & Happiness!

  4. Jen
    April 16, 2012 at 8:54 am

    Awwwww…..he is just too SWEET!

  5. Wendy Treadaway
    April 16, 2012 at 8:56 am

    Thanks, Lane’s End, for keeping us updated on Z and Baby Z. And thank you, Dr. Morrison, for the informative and clearly written article. I learned new things about leg development.

  6. Janey Boyd
    April 16, 2012 at 8:57 am

    Very informative.Thank You!I knew early trimming was important but not to this degree.Z’s colt is so handsome and taking it all in thanks to all the touching and attention he gets.Makes it so less stressful plus it’s just down right nice!!

  7. Kim
    April 16, 2012 at 8:57 am

    Thank you so much for the article and the great pics of our girl and the little prince!

  8. Elizabeth T./Kentucky
    April 16, 2012 at 8:59 am

    Wow! Baby Z is growing so fast and getting to look more like his mother every day. Great article and pics…..please keep them coming!

  9. Sharyn - Vermont
    April 16, 2012 at 9:00 am

    Wow, he’s getting so big already!! Just as beautiful as his Momma!!

  10. Barbara Brayton
    April 16, 2012 at 9:00 am

    Wow, Baby Z has grown!

  11. Ann Pollard
    April 16, 2012 at 9:00 am

    Thanks for that informative piece. I think hoof maintenance and shoes are greatly unknown and underestimated by the general public. (And yes, Baby Z is the CUTEST!)

  12. Elizabeth
    April 16, 2012 at 9:01 am

    it’s in the ears . . . gotta love ‘em!

  13. The Kennedys in San Diego
    April 16, 2012 at 9:01 am

    Bloodhorse should post this piece on their website — of general interest to many on equine husbandry. Thank you, Dr. Morrison.

    1. Keta
      April 16, 2012 at 11:51 am

      Team Zenyatta posted the on Twitter
      Here is the tweet
      Time for a Trim
      http://www.zenyatta.com/news/life-at-lanes-end-time-for-a-trim
      There are so many writers & publications on Twitter
      It would not surprise me to see it picked up & published.
      Keta

  14. Sharon from Ohio
    April 16, 2012 at 9:03 am

    Thank you so much for this fantastic story and PICTURES…made my day. Baby Z is growing into such a beauty…the picture of them walking together in the barn was so great…his ears are so much like Z’s and he looks like her shadow. I am so happy to see these pictures that I have tears of joy writing this…heart felt thanks again !!

  15. Kim
    April 16, 2012 at 9:04 am

    Thanks for sharing this great piece. Looks like momma is keeping close watch on this little guy. He is growing like a weed and so cute.

    Love You, Big Mare & 12Zenny

    Kim

  16. Karen Sweatman
    April 16, 2012 at 9:10 am

    Puts a smile on my face to start out the day. Long live the Queen and her prince!

  17. cathy p
    April 16, 2012 at 9:12 am

    Thank you Team Z and Dr. Morrison for sharing this information. Baby Z and momma are looking great. Just love the ears on baby Z. Everyone have a great week, with Lots of Love and Big Hugs.

  18. Jill Franks
    April 16, 2012 at 9:12 am

    Thanks Dr. Morrison! I love how momma Z is keeping a close eye on you. I have the priviledge of taking my mare Missy to Dr. Morrison every 8 weeks so he can work his magic on her chronic laminitis. Nothing but the best for these critters :).

    1. Trina Nagele in So Cal
      April 16, 2012 at 3:15 pm

      High hoof to the talented Dr. Morrison for being able to help your mare Missy enjoy her life. Best wishes that all continue well for you and Missy!

  19. Abigail from Montreal
    April 16, 2012 at 9:12 am

    Hi there Zenny, Prince Z-12 & fellow Zen-sters:

    So glad to get news about you and your BIG baby boy. He just looks wonderful and so do you.

    Prince Z-12 actually looks pretty interested in what the farrier is doing to his feet!

    Thanks to Scott Morrison & Team Z for the update!!!!

    Love & hugs to all

    1. Marshall (NC broad)
      April 16, 2012 at 9:42 pm

      YAY, Abigail!
      So good to hear from you! I have missed your posts! How are things with you and your wonderful companion?
      Take care and lots of hugs!
      Marshall

    2. Marshall (NC broad)
      April 17, 2012 at 12:52 am

      Thanks for the very informative post on the hooves, Dr. Morrison! Thanks, also, to Alys for the photos — great job! Love the way Mama is watching over the entire process! Too cute! Many thanks to Team Z and to Lane’s End!

    3. Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
      April 17, 2012 at 6:06 pm

      Hi Abilgail; Glad to hear from you!! I still have not gotten to the forum. I will be looking for any Vault of yours for sure. hugs Sally

  20. Especially Horses / From So Cal but still in Flagstaff enjoying today's Sun
    April 16, 2012 at 9:13 am

    A special article and a special treat to see three new photos. He is a growing boy. This experience reminds me of taking your child to get his first professional hair cut.

  21. Margaret I'm ECSTATIC!!!!!
    April 16, 2012 at 9:14 am

    I haven’t read the whole article. I wanted to point out something that struck me. Z and baby are standing on what looks like bricks! They are and they aren’t! I forget what it’s called but it’s a special “spongy” brick–very very cushiony. Non slip. So no worries if your wondering. Okay back to reading!

    1. Trina Nagele in So Cal
      April 16, 2012 at 3:17 pm

      Great news, Margaret–thanks!

  22. Jill Mabry
    April 16, 2012 at 9:16 am

    Thanks so much for the info, the pictures and most of all thanks for keeping us posted on Zenyatta and Baby Z…we love them both!! You are the BEST Team Z!!

  23. Kathy S.
    April 16, 2012 at 9:18 am

    Thank you Lane’s End, Dr. Morrison, and Alys for the great pics and all the information. Wishing everyone a lovely week!

  24. Diana
    April 16, 2012 at 9:18 am

    Aw look how big he is and look at those ears! I remember when my baby had her first trim and I still have the trimmings in her baby book. yes I have a baby book and I bet Ann Moss does too. :) thank you for sharing it is so good to see them.

  25. Lisa B./Escondido, CA
    April 16, 2012 at 9:26 am

    Oh My Goodness…Baby Z is growing up soooo fast. He is the CUTEST!! Zenny is such the perfect Mommy. Just love the way she is always watching him and reinsuring him that everything is fine. He probably feels her positive energy and is very relaxed even though this is the first trimming.
    Thank YOU Team Z, Lanes End and Dr. Morrison for the lovely pics and the very informative info on hoove care of a foal. Always learning something new!!
    Love YOU Zenny and Baby Z. OOOXXX

  26. carol in utah
    April 16, 2012 at 9:32 am

    going to the doctor for appointment…check
    mom checking doc’s credentials…all OK..check
    mom overseeing entire procedure…check
    SHE NEVER TAKES HER EYES OFF HIM…check
    baby Z a little nervous….but mom is there…check
    everything turns out well…check
    he is turning into such a BIG boy…but his ears seem to be growing faster than
    the rest of him….
    Thanks to Lanes End and Dr Morrison for the info and pictures…
    peppermint kisses for all the soft noses….world wide

    1. Barbara Wood (Texas)
      April 16, 2012 at 1:33 pm

      Carol, too cute!

    2. Keta
      April 16, 2012 at 3:17 pm

      Carol in utah,
      Your checklists during the foal waiting time always made me laugh.
      They also were very helpful.
      So nice to see you checklisting again-

      I’ll take the liberty of adding to yours:
      Snuggles in the stall post-pedi…check
      Comfort nursing…check
      Nap…check
      That last is a good idea. See you later

  27. Shari Voltz\Ohio
    April 16, 2012 at 9:32 am

    Hi Team Z and Dr. Morrison, I did not know all that went into taking care of a foal. I am learning so much and can pass this on to the children in my classroom. I am just amazed. I never realized what had to be done. Thank you for taking the time to educate us. I also want to say that Baby Z is so cute. He looks like he is so into have his feet done. Zenyatta looks Beautiful as ever. Thank you again, Shari

  28. Sarah Powell, Clemson, SC
    April 16, 2012 at 9:34 am

    I was turning out my herd this morning and reflecting on how much I still miss the daily news from Zenny in the diary and when I came in – there was this wonderful picture and article! Very informative and so glad to see Mama and the little Prince (well not so little any more!). Look how tall he is and those ears – I think these are signs of the size he will be before long. Thank you, thank you to Lane’s End and Team Z – hope we see some more picture soon.

    1. Trina Nagele in So Cal
      April 16, 2012 at 10:35 pm

      And is Lady Rose doing well, I hope?

  29. debbie gustafson
    April 16, 2012 at 9:38 am

    Wow isnt he a big thing,,,,time is passing fast just look how hes grown ,,Hes gonna be big like Zen,,,,so cute and a true sport,,hes getting so much love,,,,Want be long and we will see him on the track,,,,,

  30. Cathy
    April 16, 2012 at 9:40 am

    Too cute! They grow up so fast. Thanks so much for posting!!

1 2 3 4 … 16