By Matt Johnstone, CJF
As Appeared in American Farriers Journal March/April 1996
The following case study was presented to a panel of examiners as part of the American Farrier's Association's Therapeutic Endorsement program.
History: This case study involves Bouggie, a 12-year-old appendix Quarter Horse.
Findings And Diagnostics: When I first saw the horse in November, 1993, it was tender on all four feet.
Bouggie was suffering from chronic thrush. The shearing action of her unbalanced hooves facilitated the occurrence of the thrush.
The shearing of the unbalanced hoof turned the central sulci into a deep fissure, creating a perfect place for bacteria to culture and thrive.
The added onslaught of harsh chemicals turned Bouggie's frogs into throbbing bulges of sensitive tissue.
Bouggie's thrush had been persistent for more than a year before I first saw her.
In several attempts to eradicate the condition, several harsh chemicals were used, including Thrush Buster, bleach, 7 percent iodine, iodine crystals and formaldehyde.
These chemicals destroyed what was left of the healthy frog. What remained was the frog corium with a thin layer of scabby crust.
Treatment: The horse's heels were carefully balanced and her thrush was treated with gentler chemicals such as salt and disinfectants.
Through regular trimming and balancing of the hooves, Bouggie's frogs showed tremendous improvement after 10 months.
Follow-Up: All four of Bouggie's frogs are now healthy, viable and sound. She receives regular trimmings with careful attention to the balancing of the hooves.
