It’s that time! Baby Z just had his feet trimmed for the first time. Dr. Scott Morrison is the farrier that trims all foals and yearlings at Lane’s End. He is a veterinarian who specializes in podiatry, and he was kind enough to write this piece explaining the importance of foot management in young horses. Thank you Dr. Morrison!
-Team Z
The Horses foot provides several functions such as support, shock absorption, traction and proprioception (ability to feel the ground and negotiate limb position). In the foal however the foot also plays an important role in limb development.
At birth the hoof is covered with a soft, feathery unpigmented tissue called the perinychium. This tissue forms a soft covering to prevent the hard hoof capsule from piercing or damaging the mares’ reproductive tract during gestation and the birthing process. This tissue quickly dries out and is worn away during the first couple days after birth.
The newborn hoof is fairly soft and pliable compared to a mature horses hoof. But over the first month it dehydrates and matures to more closely resemble that of an adult horses hoof. The newborn hoof is also perfectly symmetrical at birth. Over time the hoof changes shape in response to the forces above. Limb conformation dictates the shape of the developing hoof. The foal’s hoof goes through various shape changes during the first several months of age. These shape changes closely follow changes in limb conformation and posture.
The hoof is designed to serve as a protective barrier for internal sensitive structures as well as provide a base of support and leverage for proper bone, tendon and ligament development. Therefore the shape and integrity of the hoof can have a significant effect on the development of these structures. The relationship between limb conformation and hoof shape plays an integral role in the conformational development of the growing horse. Therefore, maintaining a healthy hoof and intervening with special foot management when necessary, is important in the development of the young horse’s limb.
Routine, proper trimming is the most important element of the foal foot management program. Maintaining a healthy balanced foot is the goal. Simply preventing a foot from breaking up or becoming misshapen or distorted will go a long way in promoting proper limb development. However some foals, in spite of routine proper hoof trimming will have a tendency to develop a crooked limb. In these instances shoes or extensions can be used to provide additional support and influence the forces on the growth plates and encourage straightening of the limb.
The first trim is usually done at one month of age. But the foal’s feet should be handled and cleaned daily; this will make the first experience with the farrier less stressful. Typically trimming at 3-4 week intervals is sufficient for most foals. If there is a tendency for the limb to grow crooked or with an angular deformity, the hoof may need to be trimmed more often to prevent the hoof from developing a distortion or adverse shape in response to the abnormal forces, often a 2 week trim schedule is then recommended. Various shoes can be used to help a hoof support various developmental abnormalities such as: club foot syndrome (contractures), weak tendons (laxity) and angular deformities.
-Scott E Morrison, DVM
Linda Shull
Thanks for the pictures and information. Have really missed the updates.
Paul
Zenyatta, your foal seems to be doing pretty well based on pictures I’ve seen of him. He looks exactly like you, except he’s smaller. He will most likely behave like you in due time as well. He seems to be growing pretty rapidly, though and he will be as big as you before you know it. Human kids grow pretty fast as well, although not as fast as horses. I’m happy to hear that your foal had his feet looked after and that it went well. Lane’s End Farm will obviously carry on the tradition of taking excellent care of its horses which includes your foal. I think he will take after you. Are you two still getting out and playing every day? Enjoy it while you can, because he will be a big horse before you know it. I still watch the youtube videos of you and your foal. I can’t get enough. Has Tasty Temptation had her foal yet? You said that she was due pretty close to when you were. I haven’t heard anything. Let me know about that.
Max
Paul. Tasty finally had her foal on March 27. He is a very handsome bay colt. Unfortunately, for reasons known only to Tasty, she rejected him. Motherhood was not for her. Lane’s End said that she is back in a paddock on the farm with several other mares who do not have foals. She is not with Zenyatta. 12TT was given to a nurse mare who is looking after him as his step mom. She appears to be attentive to the little colt and seems to be taking her role quite seriously. There are photos on the LE Facebook.
I on the other hand am thinking of applying for a job as Tasty’s personal assistant and director of communications. I think that there is more to come in relation to the adventures of the lovely Ms Temptation.
signofthetimes
What a great job for you Max; taking on those “tough women”. !!!!
I do really think she was such a talent on the track and love to watch races.
Oh, by the way, watched the Breeder’s Cup at Woodbine last night (not sure
what year ) on HRTV. Really love how they simulated the turf course to be
very EURO in style with a six foot drop. I rode a percheron/cross in a fox hunt
training train ride and we were jumping up and down into gullies, it was quite
a different feel, strange. He was a veteran so he did not blink an eye.
WoW to take a two year old on that Woodbine Turf course as Mike Smith
says “YEEEE HAAAA”, you never know what you will get.
Darlene Daniels
Sign,
I am impressed you rode a Percheron. I had never heard of, or seen one until I went to Ky Horse Park. Wow, they were amazing. I was holding my 3 year old grandson up to pet one and the Persheron turned his head gently, just about knocked us to the ground because of his size and strength. Very impressive. I would not want to have to feed one though.
signofthetimes
Oh yes, percheron’s are the gentle giant’s;
Soooo very much to feed definately,
The guy I rode was TB/Percheron cross, he had
Lots of problems with “tying up”. His owner was
A vet so she was able to treat him. He had such
A large back and I have very short. Legs. Getting
Positioned was unique and the size of his saddle
Was huge. He so loved to fox hunt.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
LoL, Max!! You go get her! “Tasty’s personal assistant and director of communications.” And “the adventures of the lovely Ms Temptation.” That’s funny.
Darlene Daniels
Max,
If you get the job, could I apply for the assistant to the assistant? What a great job and work environment that would be!
Darlene Daniels
Good Evening everyone.
I love the pictures of Z and 12Z. Love getting to see him grow up and always love any picture of my Zenyatta. She and her beautiful son always make me smile.
@Shari Voltz. I can just imagine all those big bright eyes and excited little squeels from your classroom. So glad you are teaching them all about horses and sharing Zenyatta with them. I know they will always remember this school year because of it.
@Karen Gogue. I very much enjoyed your video on the cancer walk. It was so nice to see Bo Derek was there. I have always liked her. She always seems so classy.
@Terry Crow. I did go back and read your reply in regards to goats. I laughed. You never have anything to apologize for. You bring us all such happiness and I can tell from all your posts you are very tender hearted and would never insult anyone.
Now I must go back and read some of the links Karen shared. I am trying to learn as much as I can. A bit difficult with not alot of free time.
Karen Gogue / Oh B♥by!
Bo Derek is a beauty, and a sweetheart. See her at the track some times that I am there, she always smiles and says hello. Glad you enjoyed it.
Terry Crow
Thank you, Darlene. That thread about goats and horses was so funny I couldn’t resist.
Shari Voltz\Ohio
Thank you Darlene. They do love seeing anything Baby Z : )
Misty
Seriously…this is precious!! Thanks so much for this!! He’s such a gallant colt!! So full of life and look how interested he is in what they are doing! Curious lil fella!!
Elizabeth in Oregon
Thanks so much for the new and informative post and pics of the Queen and her beautiful Prince.
Many nice horses from which to choose for the Derby. Cant’ wait till the first Saturday in May!
Diana Stuart
@All: Oops. Posted above answering Karen Gogue instead of down here.
diastu-happy-fingers-in-tempe
M. Kern
Thanks Dr. Morrison for explaining the importance of foot management in young horses. This is very interesting. Also, thanks Lane’s End for the beautiful picture of Queen Z and her little prince. Wow! he got a lot bigger!
Sue Noel/Sun Valley,ID
Love,Love,LOVE these photos!!! We are so blessed to have this continuing access to Our Queen and that precious,PRECIOUS Prince! Isn’t he just unbelieveable??? Such a presence already–and he is growing “into himself” so rapidly!! Just love those ears and those Lo-o-ong legs!! Wow-he is just incredible!! Ann and Jerry have to be over the moon with the pair of them!!! And to think—they are so gracious as to share them with us!!!
I was up on Barnaby on Sunday afternoon!!We were just in his pen and were just checking out the fit on his “new” (to me) saddle and new girth and his bridle and Happy Mouth Apple bit! He is such a good boy about getting tacked up. He seemed a little surprised at the feel of the english saddle when I got on,but I’m sure he will get used to it right away.
He is so affectionate,it is simply amazing!! When I am grooming him and talking to him,and loving on him,he’ll put his head on me and almost close his eyes. It’s almost like you can hear him say that he knows he’s loved and safe. He comes to his name now — of course,I’m sure that I always come with treats attached has something to do with this,but I really feel that he is happy to be here and is starting to understand that this place is good and that good things happen here. He is SO wonderful!!
Everyone have a lovely night—sweet dreams to all–especially Zenny and that best of all possible boys!!
Terry Crow
Thank you for this wonderful report. I don’t think anybody has to worry about Barnaby any more. H is in good hands.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Sue–you have made our day!
Max
Sue Noel. Thank you so much for this report on Barnaby. I have been waiting to see this since you first told us about his arrival. It is very welcome to hear about him. Please keep posting how he is doing, and how you are doing with him. It makes my day to read such stories.
Elizabeth in NM
Sue,
Barnaby sounds like a very happy horse! Thank you for the post. I hope you’ll keep sending us updates. Blessings to Barnaby … and of course to his Sue.
PS Agree about Baby Z and all of the wonderful news. Momma Z is so cute and very protective… such a wonderful Z Family!
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin- Elated
Sue,
Congratulations on getting Barnaby, I know how wonderful it is just to hang with them, brush them, and when they nuzzle into you…..well it’s just heaven. I miss my horses when I read things like this. So happy for you and especially for him. Wish I could see pictures sometime. Hugs
Marty R / Colorado
Sue, I’m so happy for both you and Barnaby. It sounds like lots of great adventures are ahead. Please keep posting about your experiences together.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Thanks for this wonderful update, Sue! We’re living vicariously through you, and so grateful to be able to do so.
Darlene Daniels
Sue, Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. Barnaby is a very lucky horse to have found you, and you him. It is so nice to have a happy ending for a change.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Thanks for the great update Sue! Glad things are gong so well. Be sure to let us know if you post a picture anywhere (like on the Forum which i will never find).
Sandy
Shari Voltz\Ohio
Sue I love to hear about Barnaby. I wish I could have a horse. Please keep telling us your stories, Shari
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Sue Noel; Loved to hear your news. Barnaby is a sweetheart! Enjoy each day. hugs
Carol in Georgia
Thanks so much for sharing these important moments in the life of the handsome prince. It’s great to learn so many new things.
Terry Crow
OK, this is sort of a talking horse joke, at least part of it is. It is rather racy so I apologize in advance. A cowboy is riding along when he spots an Indian riding a horse, trailed by a dog and a sheep. The cowboy says to the Indian “Does your dog talk?” “Dog no talk,” said the Indian. The cowboy asked if he could try to talk to the dog and the Indian gave his consent. The cowboy looked at the dog and said “Does your owner treat you well?” The dog then replied “Yes. He takes me for long walks every day, feeds me well and takes me to the lake at least once a week so I can play.” The Indian was speechless.he cowboy then asked if he could talk to the horse. “horse no talk,” said the Indian. The cowboy asked if he could try anyway and the Indian nodded his assent. “Does your owner treat you well? he asked the horse. To the Indian’s complete surprise and consternation, the horse said “Yes. I get ridden every day, he feeds me nothing but the finest hay and oats and he keeps me in a nice barn so the weather doesn’t affect me.” The cowboy once again turned to the Indian and asked him about whether the sheep could talk. “Sheep liar,” said the Indian. Some redneck jokes to top it off. You might be a redneck if your have a relative living in your garage. You might be a redneck if you get all of your holiday decorations from the cemetery. You might be a redneck if you keep empty beer cans in the fridge for your friends who don’t drink. You might be a redneck if you have ever pulled a tooth because it was too white. You might be a redneck if your city council meets at the coffee shop.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Terry, ha ha ha ha ha, you have done it again!!
signofthetimes
So very funny, today dog and horses. What a great combination !!!!
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin- Elated
Terry,
OMG just getting caught up and found your jokes, ha, ha, ha. They stayed in my mind and I kept chuckling all afternoon, so I had to tell how much I enjoyed them. You just amaze me. Hugs
Terry Crow
Sally, sign, Sue and Marty-Thank you.
Marty R / Colorado
Where were the races?? Just kidding. Really good ones.
Darlene Daniels
Terry.
LOL! “Sheep liar”, I really lost it on that one.
You might be a redneck if your town council uses a ballpene hammer for a gavel.
Terry Crow
Love the city council joke. As it pertains to council members from California cities, the hammer should be used on their heads.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Hmmmmm . . . . so we aren’t to trust talking sheep?? Interesting.
Paula Higgins
This article was full of information! Just wonderful, thank you so much. The pictures are adorable of Baby Z. He has really grown since I last saw his picture. Zenny is the doting Mom, standing nearby, as always. Just love her, and always will.
Paula Higgins
Terry Crow, I have heard the talking dog, horse, sheep joke before and it is STILL funny.
Terry Crow
I have been putting old ones out there lately. I try to tweak ones that I have heard and change them somewhat. I’ll post one later today that I originally heard as a dumb guy joke and made it a redneck.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Terry Crow & Sue Fredrick; okay, okay, it is funny! (in regards to pogo stick) BUT I am not laughing now. Seeing chiropractor tomorrow—-sure hope he helps cause now I really feel my age or OLDER! I don’t know if it would work with Sue & I each on a pogo stick as after one hop, we’d fall into each other and there would be no winner. Kids make it look so easy now.! ha ha I think if I could spend a day just healing with Zenyatta and 12Z (your EARnie Sue), I would recover more quickly!!! hugs
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin- Elated
Sally,
Yeah, I agree no pogo sticks, even if we didn’t fall off one or both of us might get impaled on the things. Hope the Doc can “put you back together again”……Oh, sorry that was Humpty Dumpty and a wall wasn’t it. Hugs
Terry Crow
Sue-I am surprised that you would twist the knife about Sally’s injury. But, I love it.
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin- Elated
Terry, that’s my mission if life, to keep her laughing! Ha,ha. We’ve known each other for 40+ years, and we constantly kid each other as you may have noticed. I love her dearly, but can’t help but tease her now and then, must be my warped sense of humor. Hope no one takes it the wrong way. Hugs
Terry Crow
I understand. It is wonderful that you two are such friends.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Dear Sally, I’m so sorry that it isn’t funny anymore–I do hope you heal fast. I’m going to take this as a word to the wise for myself!
Terry Crow
Trina-A poem may be called for. Thank goodness stick is easy to rhyme. Pogo would be a problem.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Trina, thank you. My mind deceives me as suddenly I think much younger than I really am!! Then I pay the price! ha ha hugs
Terry Crow
Let’s see. There was a lady from Nantucket–No that doesn’t rhyme with pogo.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Sure hope there is something they can do for Dynaformer. It is a shame with age comes who knows what.
Valerie
Awwww…his first pedicure…so cute and mama Z is watching every moment. Thanks for the pic’s.
Elizabeth in NM
Loved the post today. Baby Z is growing so rapidly! Zenny, You are such a protective and loving Momma! Blessings to everyone in Zenny’s Family. Especially thinking of Judy B today – praying for you Judy.
Linda Edwards in NJ
Hi Zenny: Please thank Dr. Morrison for a this great post. Little Z looks so cute and Mama Z is looking on and watching over things like “no one better hurt him or be too rough.” Yes, little Z has your ears Zenny. Too Cute. And my goodness he certainly has legs to grow into. He is all legs!!! He has grown a lot too. I wish he could stay a baby for awhile longer. They grow up way too fast.
Linda Edwards in NJ
Oh, Zenny one more thing. Little Z looks like he took the whole procedure very well. What a little champ he is!!!!
Jan S. / Houston
Does anyone know if Dottie & John and the Z Team seen 12Z yet.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Jan, Ann & Jerry have been back there a couple of times now, we’ve seen photos here. But we haven’t seen pics of Dottie or John with 12-Z, so I’m betting not.
Jan S. / Houston
Thanks Vicki. Just wondering. I miss John’s pictures.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Hopefully, Jan, when John & Dottie do go (Dottie has said they will, but not exactly when), we will get more of John’s pics.
signofthetimes
I think Dottie and John have probably
Been to LE since 12 Zenyatta’s birth.
We are just not going to hear everything
Anymore.
Dylan
Good lord is he really that tall already!?!?!!!! Wow he looks terrific, as does his mother, very watchful over him. Zenyatta has shown to be a terrific mom!
Again very informative info about this procedure. Thank you Team Z and Mr. Morrison!
Marshall (NC broad)
Loved the pictures of Z and lilZ, and also enjoyed the information about hoof trimming.
Take care, Mama Z and Baby Z! Big hugs and kisses!
@Sue Noel: Thanks for the wonderful update on Barnaby and you! What fun you both are having. Keep us posted!
@Terry Crow: Thanks for the laughter!
Terry Crow
I always appreciate good words from the president of the North Carolina chapter.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Note to the Reader: Berube is pronounced in three syllables. Judy lost her husband and soul mate Russ just nine days ago.
A Birthday Poem for Judy Berube
(April 18, 2012)
Cupid did pierce
Not one heart
But two
With the selfsame
Arrow
At a single go,
And the love he thereby did enflame
Burned bright
Till death them did part
And continues still
Through
Sorrow’s
Night
In a fierce
Afterglow.
‘Twas not quite
Five decades ago
That Judy and Russ wed
And a joined life
From then on led.
She, as his wife,
Took his last name
And became
Judy Berube—
Her wedded name
When aloud spoken
Makes on its own
A whole sweet poem
Whose inner harmony
Does befit
Her gentle loving spirit
And then too does betoken
How she and he
Did each into the other meld
And how Love
Their souls together did weld.
.At Eastertide,
A time of death and rebirth,
Russ passed from this earth
To sit at the Lord’s side
Even as beloved Judy
Still with us does abide.
She’s lost the one she did adore,
And the pain cuts to her core—
Judy, let the tears gently
Or torrentially
Flow.
Take the time to grieve
For you know
Those tears once cried
Can be a release
And a path to emotional peace.
As the days and weeks pass,
Gradually
Let the deepest pain go.
There are future days in store
Still to be open to life’s attractions
And its large or small satisfactions
As once before.
Your tiny poodle lass
Lola Mae
Will again help you each day
To savor,
And you will to her in turn
Return
The favor.
For sure today
Russ will be looking down from above
And sending kisses your way.
We pray
That you may
Feel his –and our— love
On this, your special day.
—Yours with love in Dumplinghood, Trina Nagele
Darlene Daniels
Dear Trina,
Absolutely Beautiful! You have a true gift from God!
Max
Trina. Great poem as always.
Judy. All the best to you on your birthday. Miss you.
Elizabeth in NM
Inspiring, Trina – Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Judy and Russ. Judy, you have been and will be in our thoughts and prayers. God is greater than our hearts – although I have had a hard time wrapping my mind around that truth so many times.
May God bless you Trina and Judy
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin- Elated
Trina our poet Emeritus,
I’m sure you have touched Judy’s heart so deeply with this poem, and mine too. Brought tears to my eyes. The gift you have of putting words together is truly God given. I’m sure it is something she will keep forever. Thank you, you and Judy are truly dear souls. Hugs Sue
Terry Crow
Judy-It has been difficult for me to put into words the way we all feel about you here on the blog and the diary before. Trina has created another masterpiece which comes close to what I may have said had I had the way with words that she has. God bless you on your day.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Trina; that was the sweetest endearing poem to Judy B. You indeed brought a tear to my eyes but then, happiness. hugs, Sally
Judy Berube; May you have a peaceful Birthday!! I hope it is Happy. hugs
judy berube from Rhode Island
My Dear Trina and My Dear Z Family:
Thank you Trina for the beautiful, moving and true words you have penned for my birthday. You are a very, very special and gifted lady. Thank you Debbie, Arlene, Heidi, Sue Noel, Marty, Sandy, Skip, Shari, Cynthia, Barb W., Sally, Terry C., Max and all of my Z Family for your kind and comforting words and birthday wishes. Thank you for the beautiful flowers, but most of all for being my friends. Love and Hugs, JB
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Judy, I wish you all the best birthday wishes and may God bless you. Love, Peggy
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Peggy N and Keta:
Thank you. Hugs, JB
Keta
Dearest Trina
Once again, your words expressed what each of us carries in our hearts.
You are a poet.
Judy, the first’s are the hardest-i speak from experience.
Happy Birthday!
May your day be filled with love!
Hugs,
Keta
Ashton
Trina,
That is so beautiful. I echo what others have said, a true gift.
This made me sob.
signofthetimes
Trina,
This poem is so very beautiful with such wondeful
Emotions for our Judy.
Thanks for sharing your wonderful talent with us.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Happy Birthday Barbara; it has been a pleasure to get to know you with Trina’s wonderful B-day poem to you. Thank you for what you do.
Luv'n Zenny & Zunior
Oh My, Judy. so sorry of the loss of your husband. My sympathies are with you and your family at this time. May God help you all through this painful time. God bless you all.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@Judy Berube–thinking of you on this day. I know we all are. Hope you can feel our love from north, east, south, and west.
@Trina–thank you dear friend. I think this is your best ever. So much truth packed into verse.
@Eliazbeth in NM–thank you for the reminder. Sometimes it is hard to keep from looking at current circumstances.
Good morning Z and Baby Z.–hope you are both “full of it” this morning and that your weather is as nice as ours.
Cynthia H./ 12th ♥
Dear Judy Berube,
God brought you into the world on this very special day. May you feel the greatness of His love and that of everyone around you and beyond. As difficult as it may be to believe right now, your heart will go on. True love never dies.
♥
Terry Crow
Cynthia-You have not been visiting us often enough.
Terry Crow
OK, as promised, here is an elongated redneck joke that was originally a dumb guy joke. I’ll use names for our redneck friends that have recently been used. It seems that there is a redneck division in the army that is being kept secret. They have been undergoing special training. The division was recently called together by its commanding officer. After the men had assembled, the commander said “Men, I have some good news. You are all getting a change of underwear.” Cheers came from the assembled men. The commander then went on to say “Cletus, you change with Billy Bob…” I will be back later.
Marty R / Colorado
A hasty retreat, I see, Mr. Crow. LOL Those boys, Cletus and Billy Bob, do get around. Another classic.
Terry Crow
Sorry i stole your names, but I could not think of two more prototypical redneck names. You might be a redneck if your first name consist only of initials.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Terry Crow; I still laugh at this joke. I can just picture this!! ha ha ha
Terry Crow
I can’t say for sure, but it may be all too true.
Shari Voltz\Ohio
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUDY BERUBE and May God Bless You with Many More. Love, Shari
Shari Voltz\Ohio
Trina Beautiful poem. You are the Best !!!!!
BARB G (SKIP) and JULIETTE the Cat in NJ
I have said this before, but Trina–this is a most exquisite poem, verging on Carl Sandburg…so, so beautiful…very moving…
JUDY, dear friend, let this birthday be one small step you will take as you go forward, knowing that–as Trina said–Russ is sending hugs and kisses your way today–and that you have a family and friends who adore you. All of us are here for you, and always will be. As you always say to us, love and hugs to you, dear Judy, on this day and every day.
love
Skip
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Judy Berube,
Thinking of you are your birthday and hoping that Trina’s lovely poem and the other good wishes here will give you a smile.
Sandy