Poulticing troubles

[jaycee]

Unfortunately Jaycee has developed an abcess in his off side hind and I am having difficulty poulticing it as he is kicking out when I try to get the duct tape off and just being generally uncooperative. I have tried giving him a bucket feed to take his mind off it and this worked ok this morning but tonight he was just being awkward. My friend who is very experienced with horses also had trouble with him so I know it's not just me. I realise it's probably painful for him but he is definitely not making life easy, any ideas anyone?

[tinkerdorisalison]

that's the hardest part, getting the tape off. I tried cutting through the pad/base with big scissors then they can put their foot down and you can peel the tape off the hoof then.

He's obviously uncomfortable, poor lad

[harveydales]

I've done this so many times and yet I can't think exactly what I do! I think I cut vertical slits from the top end while the hoof is still on the ground and then when I lift the hoof, it is easy to slip off. This is probably the first time Jaycee has ever had this done and I'm sure he will get better with it now he knows what is involved.

[dalesnfellfan]

I can't be any help, I've only had to do this once and I can't remember how I did it but I think I cut the tape off.

Hope he gets better soon though, poor boy

[yanny]

I've only had to do it Once I think, maybe twice, but that was years ago so I've forgotten how! Good idea with the food plan. I'd keep trying that.
I hope he gets well soon

[jaycee]

Still struggling! It's been a horrid day here today, more rain and yet more mud in the field which is not helping Jaycee's poultice. Despite my best attempts to do a good job covering his foot this morning by the time he came in tonight muck had got inside his poultice. I washed his foot put on a clean dry dressing and hoping for a positive result in the morning, at least there isn't any mud in the stable. I am hoping he is over the worst now, thanks for your replies.