Seasonal Hoof Care Guide: Protecting Your Horse's Hooves Through Australia and New Zealand's Changing Weather

Seasonal Hoof Care: A Complete Guide for Australian and New Zealand Horse Owners

Australia and New Zealand's diverse climates present unique challenges for horse hoof care throughout the year. From scorching summers to wet winters, each season demands specific attention to keep your horse's hooves healthy and strong. This guide will help you navigate seasonal hoof care challenges across both countries.

Summer Hoof Care (December - February)

Dry, Hard Ground Challenges:

Australian summers can be particularly harsh, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in many regions. The combination of heat and dry conditions can creates rock hard ground that can cause:

• Increased Hoof Wall cracking
• Sole bruising from hard surfaces on thin soles horses
• Dehydration of hoof wall and sole
• Stone bruises and abscesses in horses with less than ideal hoof form

Summer Care Tips:

• Apply hoof moisturiser daily, focusing on the coronet band and hoof wall
  
• Consider protective hoof boots for riding on hard surfaces that your horse is not accustomed to
• Increase picking frequency to remove stones and debris
  
• Regular farrier appointments 5 weeks max to ensure hoof walls do not become overgrown and chip/crack

The Northern Regions of Australia typically see increased rainfall along with humid conditions during the Summer months which can lead to hoof and skin issues such as Thrush, Greasy Heel and Rainscald.  

Autumn Hoof Care (March - May)

Transition Period Management:

Autumn brings relief from summer heat but introduces new challenges as weather patterns shift. This is an ideal time for:

• Comprehensive Hoof Health assessments
• Addressing any summer damage before winter
• Adjusting nutrition for seasonal grass changes
• Preparing for increased moisture levels

Autumn Preparation:

• Schedule farrier visits to address any cracks or chips and ensure hooves are heading into the moisture period funk free
• Begin transitioning to wet weather hoof care products
  
• Increase hoof picking and cleansing
• Assess paddock drainage before winter rains
• Consider adding a dry footing area where the horses can be out of moisture for part of the day.

Winter Hoof Care (June - August)

Wet Weather Challenges:

New Zealand winters and Australian regions can experience significant rainfall, increased frosts and snow creating muddy conditions that can lead to:

• Thrush development in the frog
• White line disease
• Hoof wall separation
• Bacterial and fungal infections
• Softening of hoof wall, frog and sole.

Winter Protection Strategies:

• Daily hoof picking and cleaning, especially after turnout
• Apply preventative hoof care products 
• Make use of a dry lot to assist with your hoof care routine and give the horses a chance to be out of wet, muddy areas for part of the day
  
• Provide dry standing areas and shelter if you can.  Hay nets can be hung undercover with dry footing
• Consider wax based hoof care products to repel moisture.

Spring Hoof Care (September - November)

Growth and Recovery Season:

Spring brings new grass growth and improved conditions, but also presents unique challenges:

• Rapid hoof growth requiring more frequent trimming
• Laminitis risk from rich spring grass
• Increased activity levels after winter
• Transitioning from wet to dry conditions

Spring Management:

• Monitor grass intake, especially for easy keepers
• Gradually increase exercise as ground conditions improve
• If you've reduced farrier visits during winter, switch back to 5 weeks (max) between appointments if your farriers schedule allows.
• Continue preventive hoof care regime
• Assess and address any winter damage to improve for potential Spring/Summer rains.

Regional Considerations

Northern Australia (Tropical Regions):

• Focus on wet season (November-April) fungal prevention
• Manage extreme heat and humidity effects
• Address fly control and to reduce ground stomping

Southern Australia and New Zealand:

• Prepare for longer, wetter winters
• Manage frost effects on hoof health
• Watch for mud fever/greasy heel and related conditions such as rainscald

Arid Regions:

• Focus on moisture retention year round
• Protect against sand and dust accumulation
• Manage extreme temperature fluctuations

Essential Products for Year-Round Care

Having the right products on hand makes seasonal transitions smoother:

• Wax based products for wet weather protection
• Hoof Balm for dry season care
• Moisture wicking products for overly soft hooves (Hoof Powder)
• Wire Hoof Pick for daily maintenance
• Hoof Spray for multi-season use
• Mud Suds Charcoal, Aloe & Neem for skin and coat health
  
• Hoof Paste - Blue Mud ready mineral paste (Beeswax Base)

When to Call Your Farrier or Vet

Seek professional help immediately if you notice:

• Sudden lameness or sensitivity
  
• Black discharge or deep cracks
• Abscesses require veterinary attention due to the involvement of soft tissue
• Heat in the hoof or digital pulse
• Separation of hoof wall from sole
• Any signs of laminitis
• Overgrown or chipping hooves require regular farrier attention so you can ensure your hoof care routine can best assist your horse.

Conclusion

Successful hoof care in Australia and New Zealand requires adapting your routine to match seasonal challenges. By understanding your local climate patterns and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your horse's hooves healthy year round. Remember, consistent daily care is more effective than reactive treatments, and when in doubt, consult with your farrier or veterinarian.

Regular monitoring, naturally based products that compliment hoof health and growth, and professional guidance will ensure your horse maintains strong, healthy hooves regardless of what the seasons bring.