FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The following are questions we regularly receive.
1. How do I know what size boots my horse needs?
Sizing your horse for Iconoclast Boots is simple. Find a soft tape measure or string and measure the circumference by wrapping around the center point of fetlock. Measure front and hind fetlocks as they are likely different.
Iconoclast Boots are designed as a support boot rather than a splint boot. Since Iconoclast is a support boot it is important to measure the size of the fetlocks for proper fitting. Splint boots are sized by measurement of the cannon bone, which is not the area of concern for support for the horses sesamodial region (fetlock).
2. Iconoclast Boots are offered in two models. Orthopedic and Rehabilitation.
Orthopedic Boots – Recommended for everyday use for otherwise healthy horses in order to guard them from soft tissue damage due to hyper-extension or fatigue.
Rehabilitation Boots – Recommended for use on horses in recovery from injury to soft tissue of the lower limbs. (below knee or hock) Purpose of the Rehabilitation Boots is to provide proper support to the sesamodial region while doing therapeutic exercise for recovery of tissue structure. Rehabilitation boots should be removed after each therapy session. Rehabilitation Boots are OK to use in “turnout” situations but with noticed supervision.
3. How long can my horse wear Rehabilitation Boots?
Our Rehabilitation Boots are intended for use on horses in recovery from injury. If the attending veterinarian recommends application of our boots for long periods (longer than three hours per application) we recommend removing the boots every 3-5 hours allowing the skin to dry and breath. Once dry you can reapply the boots. The interest in this application is to avoid possible skin sensitivity or irritation. Keep in mind, it is important to always monitor recovering animals closely for proper improvement.
Our Rehabilitation Boots should be applied pretty snug in order to keep the support wedge in correct position. If it rotates out of position simply adjust the tension of sling straps, allowing the wedge to stay in place, centered below the base of the fetlock.
If the horse has received damage to the sesamoid bones, caution should be given to the pressures of the wedge, as it may aggravate the injury.
If this happens, it is possible to remove the wedge from the boots and use accordingly in order to provide support to the region.
4. Is sweating under the boots harmful to the horse?
Sweating or heating under our boots is not viewed as harmful as this is a normal response to coverings in any application. A negative reaction can result if any device is applied for too long or misused. Proper use of our Iconoclast Boots is to apply them while riding or exercising for therapy. Removing them when the session is concluded. Standing/tying horses with leg coverings or other equipment can cause irritation if neglected. Proper husbandry should always be in order while caring for animals. Rule of thumb – if it would be uncomfortable for you, don’t do it to your horse!
5. What is the proper way to put my Iconoclast Boots on?
Putting our Iconoclast boots on your horse is rather simple. (see application) Start by opening all velcro straps, then place the open boot (follow markings inside boots for correct legs) placing the boot in the palm of your hand, apply the side facing you to be even with the frontal portion of cannon bone, notice the horizontal pleat sewn into boot body should be in the center of the fetlock joint so that vertical fitting is proper. Once you are in place, simply start attaching the velcro straps starting from top working your way down the leg. When you reach the lower sling straps, pull the first strap around the base of the fetlock and attach at a 45-degree angle, pulling upward on the base of the fetlock. Then pull the second sling strap around the base of the fetlock applying it at 45-degrees and creating an X fashion on the front of the boot that lifts and cradles the base of the fetlock, creating a perfect 360-degree lifting cradle for the sesamoidial region of your horse’s legs. The tension used should be “pretty snug” enough to keep your boots in proper position. This tension will not allow the boots to slip, turn or allow dirt to enter under the boots from top or bottom.