White Line Filler - Hoof Care for Damaged White Line

The structure of the horse's hoof is so complex that it would go beyond the scope of this text to go into more detail. When we talk about our composite horseshoes, we always like to talk about the interaction of hard and soft structures in the hoof and in the shoe. But this is really a very simplified view of the horses' footing.

Many of us are familiar with the saying "no hoof, no horse". Keeping the hoof healthy (whether barefoot or shod) requires a good hoof trimmer, the right hygiene and care routine during the shoeing period and often supportive care products - whether as a preventive measure or treatment of acute problems.

The hoof care products must be designed to suit the structure and function of the respective area of the horse's hoof. A product for a solid hoof wall, for example, is generally not suitable for the frog . Developing the right hoof care products for the individual areas of the hoof requires the appropriate specialist knowledge of their structure and function.

Andreas (andi) Hundsmann, the farrier behind andi's Hufpflege (hoof care), has been working as a state-approved farrier and farriery instructor since 2006. Based on his professional experience, he began producing organic quality hoof care products a few years ago. For him, it is important that his products are 100% natural and free from preservatives , artificial colorants, and petroleum based carriers.

These hoof care products include the White Line Filler, which was developed to fill in eroded white lines.

The White Line – Appearance and Function

The term "white line" is somewhat misleading, as it is not actually white but rather a light yellowish color. If it cannot be clearly identified by its color, it can be recognized by its distinctive structure. The white line extends from the toe of the hoof, along the quarters, all the way to the heel buttresses .

The appearance of the white line can provide insights into the condition of the suspensory apparatus of the hoof .In the case of laminitis , for example, the white line is usually much wider. For this reason, you should consult a vet if you notice any significant changes in the white line.

The white line is intended to act as a barrier and protect the suspensory apparatus against ascending germ contamination. However, it can often only perform its barrier function inadequately if, for example, defects between parts of the horn are visible. The defects can be caused, for example, by age-related differences between the lamellar horn and the terminal horn . The difference in age between the two horn materials is due to the fact that the lamellar horn has to travel a "longer distance" than the terminal horn before it reaches the bearing edge . Older horn has a lower water content and is therefore harder than younger horn. With the ageing process, the horn becomes harder and harder and ultimately more and more cracked.

Cracks and fissures in the horn, as well as signs of decay with black discoloration in this area, can result in the white line not being able to perform its function as a barrier properly, ultimately leading to the White Line Disease (loose wall). It is therefore important to always keep a close eye on the white line and to take care of it accordingly if there are porous or eroded areas.