There are many differences between domesticated animals and their wild counterparts. While domesticated animals typically have longer life spans, they almost always require more work and attention. From vaccines, hygiene, to diet, there are many specifications that come along with owning a domesticated animal. This is certainly the case when it comes to horses. There are many protocols and procedures that are done for domesticated horses that are not needed for wild horses. That will be the topic of today’s article, as we explain why wild horses don’t need shores, but domesticated horses do.
Why do Wild Horses Not Need Shoes
The main reason wild horses don’t need shoes is because their hooves naturally wear at a rate that matches the rate at which the hooves grow. The rate at which the hooves wear away are almost always dependent on the hardness of the ground where the horse lives. Since wild horses typically have to walk on rough ground, their body has adjusted to grow the hoof at the same rate it gets worn down from the ground. Since they are exposed to rough ground from an early age, wild horses tend to naturally have stronger hooves with better blood circulation compared to domesticated horses.
Sometimes, a wild horse will run around so much that the rate of wear on the hooves is great than the rate they are growing back. This causes the hooves to be worn all the way down until they are very sensitive and tender. This can be very problematic, and sometimes prevent the horse from being able to walk. Luckily, wild horses are smart enough to recognize when this is happening. When a wild horse starts to have tender or sensitive hooves, they usually rest for a couple days and try to find soft ground. This allows time for the hooves to grow back to a healthy level.Â
Why do domesticated horses need shoes?
Domesticated horses need shoes because they spend most of their time on soft, grassland and pasture. Therefore, their hooves do not grow accustomed to walking on harder, rougher ground. Because of their sensitive hooves, they must wear shoes to protect their hooves from getting worn down too quickly. Additionally, domesticated horses tend to have weaker bone structure in their hooves. Shoes are used to help the horse maintain balance. Shoes can also help a horse maintain traction if they are running through mud or water. Some horses also wear shoes to help with other foot related infections or injuries. A shoe can help prevent a soft part of the hoof from becoming more infected or damaged.
It is important to note that all domesticated horses don’t wear shoes. Sometimes it is better to leave them without shoes for a little while to help build up strength. This is usually the case when a horse has some very weak hooves or other problems with their feet.
A horse usually has to have there shoe replaced every 6 weeks or so. This is because the hooves will most likely start to outgrow the shoe if left on for longer periods of time. It is also good to switch the shoes every couple of weeks in order to clean your horse’s hooves. Regularly cleaning a horse’s shoes can help prevent very serious infections, such as thrush.
