The hooves of a horse should maintain a natural balance.They can get brittle in cold weather.Hoof oil is a good way to help your horse's hooves maintain an ideal level of hydration.You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients.Hoof oil can be applied to protect your horse's hooves from drying out.
Step 1: Coconut oil can be used to fight brittleness.
If your horses live in a dry environment, coconut oil would be perfect.A thin coat of coconut oil keeps the hooves moist.It can be difficult to apply coconut oil in the winter.You can find coconut oil at your local grocery store.
Step 2: A budget-friendly option is vegetable or olive oil.
The oils keep the hooves moist.You can either use one or the other.You can find olive or vegetable oil at the store.You should buy the same type for cooking.
Step 3: Lanolin can help lock in water.
You can mix two parts of your oil with one part lanolin.Lanolin is a humectant, which means it helps to keep the hoof moist and prevent it from drying out again.It is possible to substitute glycerin for lanolin.
Step 4: It is a good idea to give the oil a boost.
For every 2 parts of your oil, use 1 partAloe Vera.It can help make your horse's hooves smooth and shiny.
Step 5: Adding essential oils will increase the health benefits of your oil.
Adding tea tree or lavender essential oil can have antibacterial benefits.The shelf life of your oil can be increased with the help of vitamins E and C.
Step 6: Mineral oil is an inexpensive polish.
These oils can be used to improve the appearance of your horse's hooves.Mineral or baby oil can be applied to the hooves of your horse to make them shine.You can extend the life of your purchased hoof oil or polish by mixing in a little baby or mineral oil.
Step 7: The top section of a double boiler contains oils.
If you use more than one type of oil, combine them in equal parts to make 3 cups.The top section of a double boiler is where the mixture should be put.Don't add any of the other ingredients yet.A mixing bowl can be placed on top of a saucepan if you don't have a double boiler.
Step 8: For a short time, heat the oils.
The bottom section of the boiler should be filled with 2 inches of water.All the oils have to be combined in about 3 minutes.
Step 9: If you add some to your hoof oil, mix it with the warm oil.
Add 1 2 cups of lanolin when you mix your oils in a double boiler.When it is well-combined, stir it with a wooden spoon.If you are only using one type of oil, heat up the oil in a double boiler before you mix in the lanolin to help the ingredients combine better.
Step 10: After the mixture has cooled add any extra ingredients.
Hoof oil can be kept at room temperature.If you want to use any of the essential oils, you need to add 15 liters of them.If you would like to give the oil extra preservative powers, you can put in a little of it as well.If you are using them, you can add glycerin or aloe Vera gel at this time.
Step 11: Hoof oil should be poured into a container.
When you're ready to apply the oil, use something that you can dip a brush into.When you aren't using the hoof oil, make sure the container is fully closed and sealed.The butter tub is a good place to store your oil.A funnel can be used to pour the solution.
Step 12: Hoof oil can be applied to dry hooves by using a hoof brush.
The brush should be rubbed across the outside of each hoof.Up 2 in (1.3 cm) is included in covering the entire surface.Lift your horse's foot and apply a coating to the underside of the hoof.You can use a 1 in wide paint brush if you don't have a hoof brush.Before applying the oil, be sure to clean the hooves and soles with a pick.It can be messy if dirt and grime interfere with the oil absorbing.Shake the container well before dipping your brush in the oil.
Step 13: While the oil is absorbed, keep your horse in a dry place.
Don't let the oil out to pasture or back in its stall until you've applied it.Take some time to dry and absorb the oil.It should take 30 minutes.
Step 14: For a week, apply the oil to cracked hooves.
The oil should be used every single day for a maximum of 7 days.If your horse's hooves are still dry, reduce the frequencies by about 3 times a week.
Step 15: It's a good idea to use the oil once per week.
Hoof oil should not be applied regularly because the hoof maintains the proper levels of hydration.If it has a tendency to get dry or cracked hooves, you can apply the oil once per week.
Step 16: For up to 6 months, store the oil in a dry place.
When you are not using the oil, keep the container closed.Make a new mixture if it starts to smell bad.It is possible to determine when to make a new batches by writing the date on the container.You should check the label on the container to find out the shelf life of the oil.