The Lateral Extension Hind Horseshoe is indeed versatile and beneficial for various purposes. Here are the key uses and features of this shoe:
Widening Gait and Preventing Brushing: The lateral extension feature of this horseshoe helps widen the horse's gait during locomotion. This is particularly useful for horses that tend to "brush," where their limbs come into contact during movement. By widening the gait, the shoe can help prevent brushing and potential injury.
Support and Treatment for Bone Spavin: The shoe can also serve as a support shoe and aid in the treatment of bone spavin. Horses with bone spavin often shift their weight to unload the front aspect of the small tarsal joints. The lateral extension shoe helps redistribute weight and make the horse more comfortable during movement.
Easy Fitting and Stability: Jim Blurton's design ensures that farriers can easily fit these shoes and have confidence in their stability. The deeper fullering on the outside branch of the shoe provides a strong nailing surface, enhancing stability and durability.
Roll Toe and Safed Off Heel: The incorporation of a roll toe and safed-off heel in the shoe design promotes a natural breakover and reduces stress on the hoof and joints during movement.
Quarter Clips and Stud Hole Islands: Standard quarter clips provide additional stability and prevent the shoe from shifting on the hoof. The counter-sunk stud hole islands allow for easy application of studs, enhancing traction when needed.
Pitched Nail Holes: The shoe's unique feature of pitched nail holes provides different angles for each nail, making it easier for farriers to securely nail the shoe onto the hoof and ensure proper fit and stability.
Overall, the Lateral Extension Hind Horseshoe is a versatile and effective tool for addressing gait issues, preventing brushing, providing support, and aiding in the treatment of bone spavin. Its design features prioritise ease of fitting, stability, and comfort for the horse during movement and treatment.