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Tackling Sandcracks
Rob ban Nassau, a farrier from the Netherlands, says that if you’re dealing with a 
sandcrack, it’s important to first thoroughly examine it and determine its depth and cause. Most often, a blow, trauma or a keratoma causes sandcracks. He says when shoeing a hoof with a sandcrack, you should avoid using side clips because the clips can lead to extra pressure in the coronary band because the underling horny wall being immobilized. He advises use of a horseshoe that is large and long, so the hoof mechanism can function without hindrance.
Using a bar shoe can help to avoid movement between the shoe and hoof. He also says to avoid closing the wound with packing material since inflammation may develop under the material. The wound will heal better under normal conditions and with the help of oxygen. During the first stages of treatment, he’ll apply a Betadine (iodine) compress to prevent infection and allow the wound to dry out.
Nassau has written a book on dealing with hoof problems. The March 2009 issue of American Farriers Journal will include an excerpt on coronary band injuries.
