Easyboot Epics

[martini55]

Just wondering if anyone had any experience with these boots? I have read somewhere (think it was on hoof rehab) that these boots are good for laminitics, so I was thinking about investing in a pair.

Also has anyone ever used boots when turning out? I was just thinking that maybe it would be an idea for Martini to wear boots for a while until her feet grow out more as due to the fact she is missing some hoof wall she is probably quite susceptible to all sorts of infections.

Any view/opinions on this and other boots appreciated :)

[MelanieD]

Not tried Epics but have heard of some problems with rubbing with them if you don't make some modifications, not sure if they've done a new and improved version since though. My favorites are old macs, originals or G2s depending on the shape of the feet.

Boots are great for riding but if she's sound when turned out then boots probably aren't going to be much help. Difficult to keep on in mud, can rub if left on for a long time and the foot being inside boots all day can even encourage infection in some cases.

I've learnt from experience not to panic too much about missing bits of hoof wall (may have done just a little bit of pointless flapping when Rox first had her shoes off!), just use hibiscrub or borax or whatever your favorite infection killer is to thoroughly clean out any crevices ickyness can get stuck in and it'll all grow out. Toothbrushes or the little brushes on some hoofpicks are good for really getting into crevices to scrub them out, if deep enough that you can't get to the bottom easily that way soak in borax or something once a week to kill off anything in there.

[doris]

Good advice from MelanieD. I have a pair of Boa boots and used to ride out in them, probably only short hacks though (I'm a lazy rider). I bought the gaiters that go with them and that stops any rubs around the coronet/heel areas. I never needed to turnout in them though, but I suppose if necessary, they could be used for a short time. My horse didn't mind them at all, except that she used to plod along a bit like 'Frankenstein'!

[martini55]

She seems to be 'feeling' it more with her left fore over her right. Do you think I should be concerned about that? She was completely 'sound' with shoes and I was riding her out at walk, but now seeing her the way she is it makes me wonder whether I should think about riding her with boots at all?

[doris]

She could have bruised her sole maybe. This can be very painful and make a horse very lame. Also, an abscess will make a horse lame. Barefoot horses can be prone to both at the start. Obvously if you are concerned, a vet should be called. Do you have a barefoot trimmer? I might be inclined not to ride if she is footy, but maybe lead out in hand, or give a bit of rest for a few days and see if she's any better.

[martini55]

It's only been 7 days since her shoes came off so I am not too concerned. She looks worse some days than others... thinking about it she is worse coming in that going out. Hm, I will take a hoof pick with me tonight and do her feet before bringing in and see if that makes any difference. She seems to be pretty much sound on tarmac but if she became lame on it I would of course be more concerned. There is a video of her walking (on one of her better days) on my other thread.

I have emailed an EP but have not yet heard a response, might give them another email. The problem is she I think she is about 100miles away, so I don't think she would be able to commit to trimming on a regular basis.

[Yann]

I'd not had direct experience of the Epic until today and must say I'm quite impressed with the closure system and will now be converting my previously useless bares. The old problem with the metal cleats which were designed to grip the hoof wall at the quarters and needed bashing flat has been resolved to my knowledge. They're neat boots and are meant to fit below the hairline, so avoiding rubbing. You would be able to turn out in them, but I would also question the need.

As far as work goes I'd boot and pad and take it from there - chances are she will be sound and comfortable, in which case start cautiously and take it from there, if she's happy then keep going. The more work you can get her doing the better both in terms of foot health and the laminitis. I gave Tess a month off being ridden, long lined her and walked her in hand to allow the feet to adust a bit and then we carried on as normal.

[martini55]

Thanks Yann :) We seem to be having good days and not so good days over the past week. Nothing too serious, just a bit more 'ouchy' and footy some days. I think I'll give her time off until her next trim, invest in a pair of boots and take it from there starting with inhand work.