Changes

==Introduction==

==Introduction==

 

The natural habitat of donkeys consists of sparse, fibrous vegetation on which they graze, travelling over great distances in semi-desert environment. They live to approximately 10-15 years. In developed countries, they are kept as pets in characteristically damp temperate climates with plenty of rich grazing and little exercise. They often live beyond 30 years of age. Consequently, it is almost inevitable that hoof problems develop under these conditions.

The natural habitat of donkeys consists of sparse, fibrous vegetation on which they graze, travelling over great distances in semi-desert environment. They live to approximately 10-15 years. In developed countries, they are kept as pets in characteristically damp temperate climates with plenty of rich grazing and little exercise. They often live beyond 30 years of age. Consequently, it is almost inevitable that hoof problems develop under these conditions.

==Structure==

==Structure==

 

Basic structure is similar to other equids, however, there are significant differences.

Basic structure is similar to other equids, however, there are significant differences.

* The extensor process of the distal phalanx may be below the upper limit of the hoof capsule in normal feet - interpret radiographs accordingly

* The extensor process of the distal phalanx may be below the upper limit of the hoof capsule in normal feet - interpret radiographs accordingly

Many donkeys are not used to handling and owners should be encouraged to do that, examine all feet and pick out any debris. However, beware of excessive lifting of arthritic limbs as this may cause discomfort.

Many donkeys are not used to handling and owners should be encouraged to do that, examine all feet and pick out any debris. However, beware of excessive lifting of arthritic limbs as this may cause discomfort.

Excessive rasping of the external layers of the hoof capsule should be avoided, however, it is often necessary in chronic foot disease. The hoof wall needs to be brought back into parallel alignment with the underlying dorsal cortex of the distal phalanx. The most proximal aspect of the hoof capsule at the midline is a useful guide to such treatment.

Excessive rasping of the external layers of the hoof capsule should be avoided, however, it is often necessary in chronic foot disease. The hoof wall needs to be brought back into parallel alignment with the underlying dorsal cortex of the distal phalanx. The most proximal aspect of the hoof capsule at the midline is a useful guide to such treatment.

The balance, gait and comfort should be assessed after trimming and appropriate advice given to the owners on future management, feeding and general health care.

The balance, gait and comfort should be assessed after trimming and appropriate advice given to the owners on future management, feeding and general health care.

==Shoeing==

==Shoeing==

Hand-forged shoes can be helpful on the forefeet of some driving donkeys, especially those doing road work.

Hand-forged shoes can be helpful on the forefeet of some driving donkeys, especially those doing road work.

Plastic glue-on shoes are a practical alternative to bandages post-surgery or when thin soles are traumatised continuously. Synthetic plastic adhesive materials have been successfully used to rebuild or replace the hoof wall to alleviate excessive pressure on the sole.

Plastic glue-on shoes are a practical alternative to bandages post-surgery or when thin soles are traumatised continuously. Synthetic plastic adhesive materials have been successfully used to rebuild or replace the hoof wall to alleviate excessive pressure on the sole.

==References==

==References==