Grass Rings? Founder Rings? HELP!

[CrazyQHMare]

We are considering buying a horse, but we noticed rings on his hooves. The owner said they are Grass Rings, or that's what the person who she bought him from told her. Can you explain this to me? If it helps, he's a 15 y/o Quarter Horse gelding in terrific condition, not over or under weight. Is there a difference between Grass Rings and Founder Rings? What ARE Grass Rings?? PLEASE e-mail me with any advice you can give!!!

[Sarah]

This reply is probably far too late to be of any use to you, but never mind! Grass rings are rings round the hoof caused by the horse having access to good grass (or food) and the hoof growing quickly during that period. They are like when you look at the rings in tree trunks and some are fatter than others due to a good year. Be careful that these are true flat rings and not ridges which can indicate illness as the hoof has not grown fast then. Make sure that the hoof pastern axis is straight (check the pastern and front of the hoof run in a true straight line).

Sorry, i have never heard of founder rings.

[Medalia]

These "grass rings" simply show when the horse has changed feeds. Such as if it has gone from pure foraging to hay, or from oats to sweet feed.
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