Persistent fetlock sores- what is your go to fix?

[Elsari]

Is he laying down more than normal? Is that why he’s getting the sores or is he just reopening existing sores? If he’s laying down more than normal, need to figure out why. Fetlock sores make me think sleep deprivation (horse falling asleep while standing, falling forward, and catching themselves) and a horse that is not comfortable laying down, but you mention he naps in his stall, so that’s why I’m wondering if he’s laying down more than normal. I’ve witnessed a few horses with foot pain that seem to lay down more than normal (in my opinion).

The longer he lays down, the more pressure he’ll be putting on those sores, the less likely they’ll heal (without help). I’d recommend in addition to the boots/wrapping/topical dressings, that you increase his bedding and make it softer. I think you’re going to need to do a few things to resolve it.

[Calvincrowe]

Update: More bedding in his stall, more fluffed (pellets wetted into sawdust). Boots on both fronts. Sores have nearly disappeared. So the boots will stay for now. He had been dealing with a bout of very mild laminitis (caught it super quick! vet and I did it “all right” and he’s sounder than ever…thank goodness!). I am not seeing an increase in lying down. I do think he’s not getting up as well from observing him getting up out of the rolling pit—definitely hocks. Next vet visit will address this as he is already on a senior joint supplement.

He’s a chestnut with 4 socks, so those white legs are all shedded out and I suspect this is part of the problem. And he’s itchy and that sand pit is so comfy and scratches all his itches, so that maybe exacerbating his sores.