Abstract: An equine boot attachment and/or solid structure shoe that is designed to be attached on the underside of an equine boot or an equine hoof that allows the boot or hoof to roll forward, or to the side, without unnecessary bending, thus allowing an equine user to find a comfortable natural position to relieve stress on a sore, injured or diseased hoof. The rocking action allows the equine to adjust its stance to find the most comfortable position, not unlike standing in a bed of sand. This ability to find a naturally comfortable standing position is especially important for equine with lameness such as laminitis.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved shock absorbing, light-weight, thermally insulative orthotic pad designed for use in a pad and boot assembly for hoofed livestock. The pad is comprised of a mixture of flexible spheroids and elastomeric materials. In a preferred embodiment, elastomeric material generally is more concentrated at the top portion of the pad, and spheroids dispersed in a matrix of elastomeric material concentrated at the bottom section of the pad. The spheroids have a lower density than the elastomeric materials and possess better thermally insulative properties, and in a particularly preferred embodiment, at least some of the spheroids are comprised of closed-cell polypropylene foam. A method of making the light weight pad is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hoof plate, especially made of a soft material, for orthopedic shoeing, having a plate surface (19) facing the hoof and a plate surface (20) facing away from the hoof. According to the invention, in the plate surface (19) facing the hoof there is formed an indentation (4) for the reception of the frog. Preferably, the plate surface (20) facing away from the hoof has a projection (13) complementary to the indentation.

Abstract: An assembly for attaching a horseshoe to a horse's hoof is described. The assembly is adjustable in both size and shape to conform to most horse shoe sizes and shape configurations. The horseshoe assembly includes an elastomeric rim pad, a fabric cuff, and a plate. The elastomeric rim pad has an upper surface which is coextensive with an outer bottom periphery of a horse's hoof. The fabric cuff is partially cast into the elastomeric rim pad, and is configured to conform to a wall of a horse's hoof and attach thereto through the use of an adhesive. A plate is secured to a lower surface of the elastomeric rim pad, the plate comprised of a bendable material which is adjustable in shape to conform in shape and size with a horseshoe selected from a group of horseshoes having different shapes and sizes. The plate is attached to the selected horseshoe.

Abstract: An improved animal hoof boot assembly that consists of a fabric boot and a critically dimensioned elliptical shock absorbing pad disposed inside at the bottom of the boot, the pad having a triangular raised frog support at the rear of a hoof stop at the front. The invention is also a method of transporting animals by fitting them with a boot assembly as described above.

Abstract: A horseshoe includes one or more plastic or rubber and other components which can be nailed or glued to an equine hoof, where two different materials, one harder, one softer are used.

Abstract: Disclosed is a resilient pad to be placed between a foot and a shoe of a hoofed animal comprising a first region substantially defined by the area of the shoe and a second region substantially defined by an area enclosed by the shoe. The second region contains the shock absorbing area. The first region of the pad resides between the hoof and shoe and does not provide substantial shock absorbing properties. Further disclosed is a resilient pad comprising two hemispheres for a cloven hoofed animal.

Abstract: A gripping device for a horse's hoof to spread shock and concussive forces evenly through the device, distribute pressure over the entire surface of the hoof, provide improved traction with the surface on which the hoof contacts, and enhance therapeutic shoeing applications. The gripping device comprises an elastomeric or polymeric material integrally molded to a gripping plate, the gripping plate including a raised traction section that extends above the elastomer and may form a traction chamber. The gripping device may be used with a removable cushion plate that is fittable within the traction chamber and/or in conjunction with a removable hospital plate that overlies and permits access to an injury to the hoof, include one or more clips for engagement with the front or side of the hoof, the clip(s) being integrally formed with the gripping plate or the elastomer, and include arcuate stiffening ribs and a toe calk.

Abstract: A horseshoe includes a thin, resilient member, embedded in a moldable material such as plastic or composite. Due to this dual construction, the horseshoe is strong yet light in weight. The moldable material has a thickness which varies across the horseshoe, so as to define a cavity in the space between the shoe and the horse's hoof. A channel, formed in the moldable material, provides access to the cavity, which can be filled with a medicated material after the shoe has been attached to the hoof. In an alternative embodiment, a source of current can be connected across the ends of the resilient member, causing the resilient member to function as a resistance heater, which can melt an adhesive used to attach the shoe to the hoof.

Abstract: Disclosed is an energy absorbing compound comprising an epoxidized vegetable oil, a thermoplastic polymer and a prepolymer. The energy absorbing compound is a polymeric compound which exhibits low rebound velocity and hysteresis. The energy absorbing compound possesses good energy-attenuating properties and is capable of absorbing repeat shocks without structural damage.

Abstract: An equine support pad with integral frog support comprises a flat or wedge pad integrally molded with a frog support. The support pad is open surrounding the triangular frog support to permit cleaning of the hoof. The support pad and frog support are molded from a substantially non compressible material that flexes in response to weight. Thus, the device effectively shifts weight bearing from the hoof wall to the frog while permitting the hoof to breathe and promoting normal blood flow in the foot and affording complete support of the bony column of the digit.

Abstract: A gripping device for a horse's hoof to spread shock and concussive forces evenly through the device, distribute pressure over the entire surface of the hoof, provide improved traction with the surface on which the hoof contacts, and enhance therapeutic shoeing applications. The gripping device comprises an elastomeric or polymeric material integrally molded to a gripping plate, the gripping plate including a raised traction section that extends above the elastomer and may form a traction chamber. The gripping device may be used with a removable cushion plate that is fittable within the traction chamber and/or in conjunction with a removable hospital plate that overlies and permits access to an injury to the hoof, include one or more clips for engagement with the front or side of the hoof, the clip(s) being integrally formed with the gripping plate or the elastomer, and include arcuate stiffening ribs and a toe calk.

Abstract: An equine hoof appliance for horses, comprising a substantially flat pad having the general shape of the footprint of a horse's hoof and defining a curved toe portion and a substantially flat rear edge portion. The pad attaches to the ground-contacting surface of a horse's hoof and, on its opposite surface, mounts a horseshoe disposed around a ground contacting forwardly sloping and distally extending caudal projection on the pad. The caudal projection emulates and exaggerates the hoof frog and in so doing accomplishes two important objectives. The projection encourages heel first foot placement for maintenance of healthy phalanges alignment. Simultaneously the projection stimulates proprioceptive functions in the hoof to improve the horse's balance.

Abstract: A gripping device for a horse's hoof to provide improved grip to the surface on which the hoof contacts, and a method therefor. The gripping device comprises an elastomeric or polymeric material integrally molded to a gripping plate whereby to form a pad and a surface gripping section that extends upwardly from the plate and in part above the pad. The gripping device spreads shock and concussive forces evenly through the device, distributing pressure over the entire surface of the hoof. The present device provides traction protection and has therapeutic shoeing applications. The present device may be used in conjunction with a hospital plate which overlies an injury to the hoof wherein the elastomeric or polymeric material is cut out at the wound and overlies same, the hospital plate fitting into the cut out portion.

Abstract: An equine support pad with integral frog support comprises a flat or wedge pad integrally molded with a frog support. The support pad is open surrounding the triangular frog support to permit cleaning of the hoof. The support pad and frog support are molded from a substantially non compressible material that flexes in response to weight. Thus, the device effectively shifts weight bearing from the hoof wall to the frog while permitting the hoof to breathe and promoting normal blood flow in the foot and affording complete support of the bony column of the digit.

Abstract: This invention relates to a gripping device for a horse's hoof to provide improved grip to the surface on which the hoof contacts, and a method therefor. The gripping device comprises an elastomeric or polymeric material integrally molded to a gripping plate whereby to form a pad and a surface gripping section that extends upwardly from the plate and in part above the pad. The gripping device spreads shock and concussive forces evenly through the device, distributing pressure over the entire surface of the hoof. The present device provides traction protection and has therapeutic shoeing applications. The present device may be used in conjunction with a hospital plate which overlies an injury to the hoof wherein the elastomeric or polymeric material is cut out at the wound and overlies same, the hospital plate fitting into the cut out portion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a resilient pad to be placed between a foot and a shoe of a hoofed animal comprising a first region substantially defined by the area of the shoe and a second region substantially defined by an area enclosed by the shoe. The second region contains the shock absorbing area. The first region of the pad resides between the hoof and shoe and does not provide substantial shock absorbing properties. Further disclosed is a resilient pad comprising two hemispheres for a cloven hoofed animal.

Abstract: A hoof pad is used with a shoe for an animal, with the pad having a plate-shaped object and a plurality of catches. The flexible plate-shaped object has a partially elliptical shape including a top surface, an inner edge, an outer edge substantially matching the inner edge of the shoe. The plurality of catches are formed on the top surface of the plate-shaped object, with the catches extending outward from the plate-shaped object. The plate-shaped object is supported on the inside of the shoe by securing the catches on the plate-shaped object to the top of the shoe so that the top of the plate-shaped object has substantially the same height as the top of the shoe. The plate-shaped object is removably attachable to be freely attached and removed from the bottom of the shoe.

Abstract: Described is a plastic form conforming to the shape of the underside of an equine hoof and within the borders of the hoof wall that is affixed to the hoof by means of straps or adhesive tape. The function of the form is to support the sole and skeletal structure of the hoof while the hoof wall remains unsupported, the purpose being to allow the hoof wall to grow out undistorted following the occurrence of lamninitis or founder. The plastic form can have additional thickness at the heel area to reduce tension of the suspensor ligaments and flexor tendons. The form can be cushioned to allow for sensitive hoof soles.

Abstract: A one piece elevated horseshoe to be used on the front feet of a gaited performance horse. The toe to heel angle is adjustable from 0 to 20 degrees, constructed and formed from materials in such a manner as to have adjustable rebound and shock absorbing characteristics. The elevated horseshoe is attached indirectly to the horse's front feet using a conventional nailer pad between the horse's hoof and the elevated horseshoe.

Abstract: An equine frog support system, comprising a support base constructed of a material, preferably a thermoplastic material, molded to conform to the frog and collateral sulci of an equine foot, the material being sufficiently rigid and fully elastic during the use thereof to support the frog and the collateral sulci; and a wrapping or other device for holding the support base against the foot. Preferably, the support base is shaped to support only the frog and collateral sulci of the foot. Also, a method for treating equine laminitis is provided, comprising the steps of placing a softened hardenable material, preferably a thermoplastic material, over the frog and collateral sulci of an equine foot. While the material is in a softened state, the animal is caused to place weight on the affected foot, thereby compressing the material between the ground and the foot.

Abstract: An improved horseshoe shock-absorbing impact pad for horses including a generally oval-shaped panel truncated on one side to have an outer perimeter configured to correspond to the hoofprint of a horse. The panel is made of a relatively firm, resilient material, and includes a honeycomb-configured core having a first sheet of resilient material bonded to one face of the core and a second sheet of resilient material bonded to the opposite face of the core to form a plurality of hermetically sealed cells. The core comprises bonded together first and second regions. The first region having a plurality of strips of thermoplastic material having a first stiffness characteristic, bonded together along a plurality of first bond joints to form a plurality of contiguous regular shaped cells.

Abstract: A combination hoof pad and horseshoe which raises the horse's heel and at the same time supports the coffin bone. The pad is wedge-shaped to be higher at the heel and lower at the toe. An insert support is located on the bottom of the pad such that it presses upwardly from the ground line to give support to the center of the coffin bone. The shoe portion of the remedial pad and shoe combination is provided with replaceable high heels thus raising the hoof heel to relax the flexor tendons. Relaxing the flexor tendons reduces pull on the coffin bone.

Abstract: A horseshoe impact pad including a molded base of urethane material or the like having a recess formed in the upper, hoof engaging surface thereof and having a resilient honeycomb panel disposed within the recess and fixedly secured to the base. The horseshoe pad may be of full hoof design, for certain racing application, or may be generally limited to the hoof area covered by the horseshoe itself. The hoof side of the pad may also be configured to include a frog support component. The turf side of the pad may be provided with stabilizing ribs, heel shock-reducing projections, etc., and the base may be tapered to provide a desired tilt to the animal's hoof.

Abstract: The invention involves a combination hoof pad and horseshoe which raises the horse's heel and at the same time supports the coffin bone. The pad is wedge-shaped to be higher at the heel and lower at the toe. An insert support is located on the bottom of the pad such that it presses upwardly from the ground line to give support to the center of the coffin bone. The shoe portion of the remedial pad and shoe combination is provided with high heels thus raising the hoof heel to relax the flexor tendons. Relaxing the flexor tendons reduces pull on the coffin bone.

Abstract: A horseshoe is for the protection of a horse's foot offering absorption of concussion and adequate traction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting the hooves of a horse from concussive forces are described. A pad manufactured of woven felt is fixedly secured between each of the horse's hooves and a horseshoe. The pad has a size and shape approximating that of the horseshoe, and has a preferred thickness of about 0.125-0.250 inches, a surface density of about 30.0-68.0 ounces/square yard, and a density of about 0.218-0.304 ounces/cubic inch. In a preferred embodiment, the pad is first attached to the horseshoe followed by attachment of the horseshoe and pad to the hoof. Any excess portions of the pad extending beyond the edges of the horseshoe are trimmed off.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting the hooves of a horse from concussive forces are described. A pad manufactured of woven felt is fixedly secured between each of the horse's hooves and a horseshoe. The pad has a size and shape approximating that of the horseshoe, and has a preferred thickness of about 0.125-0.250 inches, a surface density of about 30.0-68.0 ounces/square yard, and a density of about 0.218-0.304 ounces/cubic inch. In a preferred embodiment, the pad is first attached to the horseshoe followed by attachment of the horseshoe and pad to the hoof. Any excess portions of the pad extending beyond the edges of the horseshoe are trimmed off.

Abstract: A resilient pad to be placed between a foot and a shoe of a hoofed animal, the pad including a first plastic polymer having a first durometer, and a second plastic polymer having a second durometer higher than the first durometer is disclosed, wherein when the pad is in position between the foot and the shoe, the first plastic polymer is simutaneously in contact with the second plastic polymer and the shoe, and the second plastic polymer is in contact with the first plastic polymer and free of contact with the foot.

Abstract: Device comprised of a screen (2) adapted to be secured in combination to fixtures of a horseshoe (1), and of a pre-forming plate (3) which cooperates with the whole surface of the horseshoe, and which is fastenable in a temporary manner to the screen to permit the injection of a thermoplastic material in the interior of the whole internal volume of the sole.

Abstract: A horseshoe for hooves of four legs of a trotting horse includes a thin plate member of a resiliently bendable plastic having two thickened areas, namely, an outer arched area along a front half of the shoe and a rear triangular area, with the two areas being connected through partial areas of the thin plate member. The arched area is provided with only partially through-going transverse grooves which provide for a good set off and leave longitudinal ribs which stiffen the shoe in a longitudinal direction. The triangular area which covers a hoof frog effects a blood-pumping relative movement and the collateral cartridge areas of the hoof will be covered by the thin plate material which will not exert any high permanent pressure against these areas. The shoe is shaped smooth so that it can not be braked at the impact.

Abstract: A horseshoe includes a resiliently flexible metal frame which is attached to the outer surface of the hoof by flaps adhered to the surface and is releasably connected by projections to an elastic sole member which is prefabricated in the peripheral shape of the hoof.

Abstract: A sole plate for attachment to the hoof of a horse by means of plural screws, the plate including a reinforcement frame, an integral casing enclosing the frame, with a portion of the casing defining a central unadhered zone with the frame, a hole formed in the frame for permitting access to the central zone, and a valve closing the hole for insertion of a needle therethrough to inject compressed fluid into the central zone and inflate a portion of the casing forming the bottom wear layer of the plate.

Abstract: Horse hoof wear appliance of thermoplastic elastomer, preferable polyurethane, made of two parts, one a strip conforming to the contour of the horny hoof portion of the hoof, with its rear ends united near the hoof buttresses by a connecting strap to form an annulus, the other a closure plate removably attachable for completely closing the free space inside the annulus. The ground bearing surfaces of annulus and the ground bearing surface of closure plate are coplanar and each has longitudinal and transverse anti-skid relief sculptures, divided into four separate regions, forward, rearward, and lateral, and all extending mainly parallel to the adjoining edges of the appliance.

Abstract: A horseshoe includes a horseshoe base which corresponds to the actual configuration of a horse's hoof. The base is mounted on the hoof so as to leave a space between a sole of the hoof and an upper surface of the base which faces the sole surface when the base is installed on the hoof. A filler material is filled in the space so as to support the hoof on the base when the latter is installed on the hoof.