Ghost
16.2hh, 22 yr old ID/TB, Devon
Ghost was (we thought) retired unsound with navicular in June 2004, having received excellent remedial (bar) shoeing for several years.
In September 2004 we took his shoes off, but he was to be shod again immediately if he showed any discomfort (he had previously been very sore without shoes).
Despite having flat feet, weak digital cushions and prolapsed frogs, Ghost was comfortable on grass as soon as he received a natural trim.
He was tender on concrete/tarmac and so was only lightly worked on sand or grass, since we had no boots big enough for him.
Despite limited work, he steadily improved, and was regularly worked in the school. We noticed that a twisted foot, which had made schooling very hard for him, had straightened, and he was working better than ever.
The top photo was taken immediately after his bar shoes came off. You can see the chalky dead sole, and the black fungal infection at his white line.
His feet were flat, with weak heels and slightly contracted frogs, and he had lots of flare.
This photo was taken in July 2006, and he is jumping better than ever.
Since then his heels and frog have spread out (de-contracted), his feet have reasonable concavity, and most importantly they work for him.
In fact, within 4/5 months of going barefoot he was sound to hack out!
Ghost has been in light work, but in 2006, a good friend of ours has taken Ghost on, and he is now back in full work, doing what he loves best - jumping and competing!!
