Hoof abscesses can be extremely painful for horses. Fortunately, they’re typically not as serious as they seem. And with an accurate and early diagnosis, you can initiate prompt treatment and prevent potential further complications. Dean Hendrickson, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, professor of equine surgery at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, says opening an abscess from the bottom of the hoof to allow it to drain is the ideal solution. Soaking and packing the hoof can help draw out the infection.
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