Nail Prick in Horses

If you suspect your horse is suffering from nail prick, call your farrier or vet immediately. The shoe and nails should be removed by a professional as soon as possible. Horses suffering from nail bind should show some degree of improvement once the shoe is removed although the presence of bruising and/or infection will cause lameness to ensue.

The foot may need paring to establish drainage if infection is present. The sole should be cleaned and a warm/wet poultice applied to encourage darainage of infective material and contaminants from the nail hole. A dry poultice should be applied once all infection has been eliminated to harden the foot and your horse should be sound before being re-shod. Treatment may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to control pain and inflammation.