I was cleaning off the horse's hooves last night and noticed Cara has what looks like a crack towards the bottom of her front hoof about an inch or so above the shoe. She's not limping or favoring the leg at all so I don't think it's causing any pain.

Is this something that I should call the vet about? He's coming out next week to give both horses a going over and I hate to make him come out twice if I can help it. Not to mention that I really can't afford the extra fees this week. At the same time, I don't want Cara to suffer at all.

I figured I'd ask here first. I'm sort of a new mother when it comes to the horses as I'm still learning. I've had the vet out a few times when it turned out to not be necessary and he's started laughing at me when I call.

If he's coming out next week, it should be fine. It's not something I'd wait on, but since you already have an appointment in just a few days, that should do.

Is this the first crack she's had? is it just a fracture, or is there a gap?

It could be caused by many things - injury most likely, but also wall damage can exist and cause recurring cracks. I've had horses with gaping cracks filled with a composite (like the new fillings they do on teeth to replace the old silvers) and a corrective shoe. I think you'll be fine waiting a week, but you may want to take a break from riding her until she's been seen and reshoed.

Got your PM, Morgan but for some reason couldn't reply. I'm glad that your vet reassured you but sorry that I didn't catch your post sooner so I could lay your fears to rest. Don't worry, it's all a learning curve. Horses are a bit more complex than owning cats and dogs but the payoff is so very worth it.

I think I worry alot and would have just called the vet to let them know its possible they might need a good look at, just to make sure the vet could bring anything they might need to take care of it even if it was simple. Good you had an appointment the same week though, good timing right?

The vet says it's probably some sort of deficiency but he will take a look when he comes out Monday. I just panicked when I first saw it. I know I still have a lot to learn about caring for them and I don't want anything to happen to Gram's horses. They were like her best friends, you know? Thanks for the responses.