1634: Deep dive Into Hoof Abscesses, by Sentinel Horse Nutrition - Horse Tip Daily

In Horse Tip Daily episode 1634, Coach Jen welcomes Dr. Amy Sananastasio from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine for a deep dive into hoof abscesses, a common and painful condition in horses. Dr. Sananastasio explains that sub-solar abscesses result from bacterial invasion through the white line, leading to pus accumulation between the hoof capsule and coffin bone, causing severe lameness. She discusses risk factors such as poor hoof conformation—especially in draft breeds like Belgians and Percherons—and environmental triggers like wet-dry cycles. The episode covers treatment strategies, including soaking in Epsom salts or isotonic solutions, and emphasizes the importance of establishing drainage from the bottom of the foot to prevent prolonged infections or complications like coffin bone involvement. Dr. Sananastasio also shares her groundbreaking research using venography—a technique that visualizes blood flow in the hoof—to more accurately diagnose and localize abscesses, improving treatment precision. The conversation includes cautionary tales of extreme home remedies like bleach and formaldehyde, which, while sometimes effective, are dangerous and not recommended.