How to recognize, treat, and prevent this irreversible joint disease. Osteoarthritis (OA) in horses, formerly known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common joint problem in horses, accounting for more than 60 percent of equine lameness. The term “arthritis” refers to joint inflammation, and there are many types and causes in horses.

Hoof wall separation disease (HWSD) is an inherited disease in some Connemara ponies characterized by separation and cracking of the outer hoof wall. This can lead to ponies having to support their weight on the sole of the hoof instead of the hoof wall, which, in some cases, can result in chronic inflammation, severe lameness, and laminitis. Affected ponies typically show clinical signs within the first six months of life.

Equestrians who pay close attention to their horse’s feeding program may have noticed a growing conversation around iron levels in equine diets. Concerns about “iron overload” are easy to uncover online, often linked to buzzwords like “oxidative stress” and “free radical damage.” Many blogs and nutrition forums point to high iron intake as a factor in various equine health concerns—from metabolic challenges and poor immune function to weak hooves, dull coats, and growth issues in foals. Numerous websites offer advice, and many promote supplements or detox products claiming to address excess iron. But what exactly is iron overload in horses, and is it something the average horse owner should be concerned about?

Over the past few years of shoeing rodeo horses with heavy competition and training schedules, I have noticed patterns emerge. Commonly, roping and barrel horses spend a decent amount of time barefoot during the off-season, and are put back to work for several weeks before being shod. These generally small and flat-footed horses can end up lame.