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Equine Ailments - A to Z
Cracked Heel - a form of psoriasis, dermatitis in the hollow of the pastern. Attributed to wet and cold and possibly to the action of dirt, horses with white legs are more subject to the trouble. The hollow of the pastern becomes sore, reddened and scaly. Small vesicles form and cracks appear. The skin becomes thickened and callous. If not treated in the early stages the animal becomes lame.
Treatment – wash with a medicated soap and dry the skin thoroughly. Clip off all the hair in the hollow of the pastern. Apply zinc ointment or other barrier cream; in advanced cases it may be necessary to apply bandages with a wading pad. |
