Thrush is often associated with wet and muddy conditions. When conditions are wet and muddy it can be difficult to properly clean out debris around the frog on a regular basis. The rapidly accumulating debris blocks oxygen to the hoof. Thrush results from the invasion of anaerobic microbes that thrive in environments absent of oxygen. If the hoof is not routinely picked and cleaned, oxygen is sealed away from the tissues around the frog thereby providing the anaerobic bacteria with the perfect environment to thrive.
Thrush can be mild or can progress quickly to a severe case. In the more severe cases, the bacteria has penetrated and infected the sensitive tissues of the hoof. The horse often becomes foot-sore and lame. Mild cases of Thrush can usually be treated with proper management and regular applications of Life Data® Hoof Clay®. The more severe cases may require additional assistance from a farrier or veterinarian.
Treating Thrush with Home Remedies
In treating Thrush, we need to be mindful of the products we choose. Some remedies for Equine Thrush should be avoided. Products containing formalin (formaldehyde), copper sulfate, pine tar, iodine crystals, and solvents such as acetone and turpentine are caustic and can chemically burn and damage healthy hoof tissue. If the horse has a severe case of Thrush where sensitive tissue has been affected, the caustic chemicals may cause discomfort. The horse often learns the treatment is painful and may refuse to allow lifting of the foot for treatment. Petroleum based and greasy products which block oxygen should also be avoided.
While treating and preventing Thrush, we recommend Life Data® Hoof Clay® and a regular routine of trimming, cleaning, and maintaining hooves.
So, why do we recommend Life Data® Hoof Clay® in the treatment of Thrush?
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Non-Caustic
Life Data® Hoof Clay® is a mild and non-caustic product. Life Data® Hoof Clay® does not contain any chemicals that will burn or harm sensitive or live tissue. In fact, Life Data® Hoof Clay® is so mild that the horse owner can apply it with their bare hands.
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Ease of Use
Life Data® Hoof Clay® is easy to use and easy to apply. As mentioned above, due to its non-caustic nature, the Hoof Clay® can be applied with your bare hands. No special tools are required. The texture of the product is pliable, making the product easy to remove from the container for a smooth and even application.
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Sticks to the Surface of the Hoof
Regardless if it is the sole of the hoof or the hoof wall, Life Data® Hoof Clay® is designed to stay in place. This is particularly important in the treatment and prevention of Thrush, White Line Disease, and other hoof related issues. By sticking and staying in place, the product can deliver antimicrobials to the problem areas and protect from outside foreign material.
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Stays in Place
Due to its sticky nature, Life Data® Hoof Clay® will stay in place for several days. Even after three or four days, the residual Hoof Clay® will remain effective. Life Data® Hoof Clay® will derive the best results and last longest when used on a hoof that has been cleaned and thoroughly dried prior to application. It is also recommended that the horse is kept in a dry area for thirty minutes before returning to a wet pasture. Farrier’s Finish® can also be applied on top of the Life Data® Hoof Clay® to help repel water and assist in protecting the hoof.
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Economical
Many products that boast Thrush treatment and prevention also come with a higher price tag. Life Data® Hoof Clay® is economical. Especially when looking at the price compared to how long it lasts. Even the smallest 10 oz. jar can last a horse owner several weeks depending on how often and how much of the product is used.
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Effective Active Ingredients
Life Data® Hoof Clay® contains tea tree oil, tamed iodine, and yucca. These ingredients are highly effective in the defense and control of bacteria; including the bacteria that lead to Thrush.
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A Great Team Player
Life Data® Hoof Clay® can be safely used in combination with Farrier’s Finish® and Farrier’s Formula®. Using Life Data® Hoof Clay® and Farrier’s Finish® together is a great combination in protecting the outside hoof from environmental factors. Feeding Farrier’s Formula® helps improve the internal health and quality of the hoof. By using all three together, you are essentially providing the necessary nutrition and protection needed to develop the best possible hoof for your horse.
It is always important to consult with your farrier and veterinarian before treating any kind of hoof related issue. If you have any questions regarding Thrush or Life Data® products, feel free to contact us at 1-800-624-1873. You may also visit our website to learn more about Life Data® Hoof Clay®.