Abstract: A pad-like support device's springy (dampening, elastic) function allows a horse hoof during impact to function similar to a hoofs function during impact when the horse is unshod. A further advantage is that the risk of pressing in is essentially eliminated. A further advantage of the present invention is that the flexible zones reduce the pull on the shoe and the seam (nails) when rocks and uneven ground press the middle part in the upward direction. A still further advantage is that an effective dampening of the frog's ground impact is achieved thereby reducing the load (stress) on the horse's hoof, ligaments and joints. It is a further advantage of the present invention that it improves circulation. Because the frog's support essentially follows the frog's every movement, friction (abrasion) occurring between the pad and the frog on existing pads is minimized.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a pad-like support device (1) intended to be attached between a horse's hoof (2) and a horseshoe (3) comprised of at least one first side part (6), at least one second side part (7), at least one middle part (8) and a support section (9) for the frog, and at least one first flexible zone (10) and at least one second flexible zone (11) extending essentially along the pad-like support device's longitudinal direction. This design allows for the support section (9) and the middle part (8) to be flexibly arranged in the horizontal and vertical directions relative to the first side part (6) and the second side part (7).

Abstract: The invention relates to a horseshoe which is compliant with the natural expansion and relative movement of the hoof of the horse during the hoof's impact with the ground surface. The horseshoe 200 according to the invention is made of a solid homogenous metal. The horseshoe comprises a toe section 210, two side sections 215 and two heel sections 220. At least one bending articulation region 216 is provided in each side section 215, said articulation regions realized by a local structural weakening of the horseshoe 200. According to one embodiment of the invention the horseshoe is provided with a ridge 225. The ridge has a first shape (a) in the toe section and a second shape (b) in the side sections wherein the second shape have a smaller cross sectional area than the first shape, the transitions forming the structural weakening.