Hoof disease

Donkeys can suffer from many hoof problems and it is therefore advisable to regularly check your donkey's feet for any early signs of trouble.

Abscesses

The signs are lameness with severe pain. Dark spots on the hoof may also appear. The most important part of the treatment is to ensure that the tetanus vaccination is up to date. Your veterinary surgeon will have to open the abscess to let it drain. Deeper ones might need antibiotics and even long term treatments with regular dressing changes.

Contracted heels

These can be detected when the width at the base of the frog is less than 2/3 the width of the widest part of the hoof and it can often lead to other hoof problems. Again, make sure that the tetanus vaccination is up to date and consult your veterinary surgeon as a proper hoof trimming will be necessary, and probably, corrective shoeing.

Corns

You will notice a yellow or red discoloration of the sole, usually on the front feet and possibly lameness and soreness of the area when using a hoof tester. The area of corn may become abscessed.

A corrective trimming and shoeing will be necessary to protect and transfer weight from the bruised area. Draining of the area will be needed if there is an abscess.

Laminitis

The signs are progressive. At first, the donkey walks as though on eggshells and then the weight is shifted to the rear feet. Later, the donkey will resist walking and lie down much of the time. It can result in severe, permanent, lifethreatening lameness.

X-rays are often necessary, as well as providing soft flooring and give anti-inflammatory medication and medication that improves circulation to the foot. Corrective shoeing is also needed.