Sole-Guard
What is Sole-Guard?
Sole-Guard is a fast setting, 30 second, liquid urethane hoof protection material providing a durable, shock absorbent, support that retains its shape and flexibility indefinitely. Sole-Guard is designed for use without shoes and adheres to the sole sealing out moisture and debris, protecting both the frog and the sole. Once removed Sole-Guard will leave the sole in excellent condition.
Click here for product introduction video.
When should I use Sole-Guard?
Sole-Guard is perfect for providing protection for horses without shoes when riding rough terrain, horses transitioning from shoes to bare feet and for late term broodmares who need that extra support.
How long does it take Sole-Guard to set?
Sole-Guard has an initial set time of 30 seconds with a final cure around 5-6 minutes.
How do I remove Sole-Guard from the foot?
You can remove Sole-Guard from the foot by using a hoof pick, or a pair of pull-offs. As the sole grows and exfoliates, the material will loosen up after several weeks.
Can Sole-Guard be filled to ground level?
Sole-Guard should be filled to ground level but not above that point. If filled above ground level, the horse is likely to "catch" the material at the toe and pull it out. Most often you will want to fill to the white line.
Does Sole-Guard give off heat as it sets?
Sole-Guard gives off little to no heat while curing. In the summer you will notice a bit of heat but nothing that can harm the sole.
Does the material change shape over time?
No, once set Sole-Guard will retain its shape until you remove it.
How long will Sole-Guard stay in the foot?
It all depends on the conditions you are in and the activity level of your horse. On horses that are used regularly, you should be getting 3 weeks on average out of an application.
Can this be used as a "spare tire" on the trail?
Most definitely. Sole-Guard can be applied to a foot that has thrown a shoe. Simply brush any dirt from the sole, make sure it is dry and apply. See the application directions for this technique.
How do you apply Sole-Guard to the sole?
Please refer to the application pages on the web site. It's fast and easy.
Do I have to use the plastic during application?
The use of the Contouring Plastic makes it very easy to see where the material is being spread and it does not stick to the Sole-Guard material. In a pinch you can use other flexible materials but they will probably adhere to the material and have to be worn off.
How long do I have to hold up the foot?
Normally only for about one minute. It will be weight bearing in about 30 seconds but we recommend giving it another 30 seconds or so before you put the foot down.
Can I use Sole-Guard on a sore-footed horse?
We do not recommend the use of Sole-Guard on a sore-footed horse. Sole-Guard was designed to provide extra protection for a sound-footed horse that is unshod. If your horse is sound and has normal depth of sole, Sole-Guard is perfect. If your horse has very thin soles or is already bruised on the sole we suggest waiting to use Sole-Guard until the bruising has gone away or the sole has thickened up some.
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| SOLE-GUARD APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Dispense Sole-Guard onto a clean, dry sole. |
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Use contouring plastic to flatten and smooth material. |
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Sets in 30 seconds and is weight bearing after 1 min. |
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Complete foot protection and support. |
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| Equi-Pak|CS |
When should I use Equi-Pak|CS?
Equi-Pak|CS can be used on most cases of thrush and at the white line where you have stretching and bacteria present.
Does it set differently than the regular Equi-Pak?
Equi-Pak|CS takes a bit longer to set, 45-60 seconds. As always, temperature plays a part in set times. The material will set faster in hotter climates and take longer when it is cold. Please refer to the application directions for hot and cold weather suggestions.
When should I not use Equi-Pak|CS?
Do not cover up thrush cases where you have any bleeding or there is the presence of white necrotic tissue.
How do I prepare the sole for application of Equi-Pak|CS?
Sole and frog prep should be the same as usual. Trim and conservatively pare out the sole. Remove any thrush and bacteria areas with hoof knife and conservatively trim the frog to remove any thrush. For working horses, the use of Vettec Mesh with the shoe is recommended.
Should I dry the foot before application of Equi-Pak|CS?
Absolutely, you should always dry the foot before application of either the regular Equi-Pak or the new Equi-Pak|CS.
Does Equi-Pak|CS provide the same support as the regular EP?
Equi-Pak|CS sets up a bit softer than the regular Equi-Pak but will provide support for thin soled, sensitive feet.
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| EQUI-PAK|CS APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Applied like Equi-Pak, Equi-Pak|CS, infused with copper sulfate, can be used on most cases of thrush and during the wet seasons to prevent thrush. |
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Providing a complete seal, Equi-Pak|CS eliminates the need to pick out the feet and medicate on a daily basis. EPCS is extremely durable and adheres to the sole. |
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Normal hoof after 6 weeks and 1st treatment of Equi-Pak|CS. Note firm, dry frog area. |
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Same hoof after trim. Note apparent elimination of thrush in commissures and cleft of frog. |
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| Equi-Pak & Equi-Pak|Soft |
Do I have to use a pad with this material?
For therapeutic or lameness cases you can fill to ground level. For animals in work a pad is strongly recommended.
How do I use it without a pad?
After the shoe is nailed on, scrub the sole with denatured alcohol and dry thoroughly. Apply Equi-Pak or Equi-Pak|Soft onto the sole, hold the hoof for 30 seconds and release. NOTE: If wet conditions are expected, tack on a piece of Equi-Mesh as added insurance.
Does Equi-Pak / EP|Soft leaves a "Cheesy Sole " like silicone?
No, the sole is left in great condition. It pares out beautifully.
Does Equi-Pak / EP|Soft absorb shock better than silicone?
Yes. Silicone simply transfers shock up the leg while Equi-Pak displaces it.
Can the material be loaded to ground level?
Yes. After the shoe is nailed on, simply dry the sole and place a foam board over the shoe and dispense the material at the heels, and fill it up to the heels or bulbs.
NOTE: Equi-Pak & Equi-Pak|Soft Hoof Packing will adhere to leather and rubber pads, as well as some types of polyethylene pads.
Will the material change shape after time?
No, once Equi-Pak & Equi-Pak|Soft sets it stays the same shape until removed.
Does Equi-Pak / EP|Soft generate any heat?
Yes, a very small amount.
HINT: In extremely hot conditions it's best to cool the material before dispensing, as it may go off hotter than normal.
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| EQUI-PAK|CS APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Support and protection only where you want it. Block out areas where support is not desired such as abscesses and other areas of concern. |
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Filled to ground level, Equi-Pak provides full support for weak, thin soled and sensitive feet. |
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Equi-Pak provides temporary support and comfort for laminitic and foundered cases until x-rays can be taken. |
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Equi-Pak can be used in a thin layer to provide protection against stone bruises in rough riding conditions with or without a pad. |
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| Equi-Build |
Will it help with contracting heels?
Yes, it will stop heels from contracting, but generally won't spread them.
Does Equi-Build help with sand migration?
Yes, it adheres to the sole to seal out all forms of moisture and debris.
Do I need to use the Equi-Mesh?
No, but it can be used for added insurance for wet or rough conditions.
Will Equi-Build help on chronic wall cracks?
Yes, it takes enough of the load off the wall to allow the cracks to grow out.
How long does it take to set?
It takes about 3 minutes to set.
How do I remove the material?
Use your pull-offs to remove the material.
How long do I use this material on the horse?
Generally you'll use this for 1 or 2 shoeing cycles, until you get the hoof angle where you want it. From there, your proper trimming will take care of the rest.
How do I place this material in the sole?
Doesn't this put too much pressure on the sole and frog?
No, because the material is self-leveling it fills in all the voids so there are no pressure points, and the foot is completely packed.
Can it be used on foundered or laminitic horses?
Equi-Build has been used very successfully on foundered and laminitic horses.
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| EQUI-BUILD APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| On a horse with healthy but weak soles, Equi-Build helps generate thicker, more substantial sole growth in a few shoeings. |
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When you need more support in the heels but have thin soles at the toe, use a combination of Equi-Pak and Equi-Build. They bond to each other. |
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Used with bar shoes, Equi-Build helps support the sole, hoof wall, and bone column for horses with crushed or under-run heels. |
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Equi-Build wears like a car tire and is perfect for rough terrain, trail rides or endurance rides. |
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| Sil-Pak |
How long does it take Sil-Pak to set?
Sil-Pak sets in one minute at between 65°F and 85°F. Warmer temperatures may speed up set time. Cooler temperatures may slow set time.
Does Sil-Pak bond to the foot?
Sil-Pak does not bond to the foot, and when used with a hospital plate, is removable for treatment.
Will Sil-Pak migrate or come out?
No, though it does not bond to the foot like Equi-Pak, Sil-Pak flows into every contour of the foot. This prevents it from moving around and being displaced under the horse’s weight.
Does Sil-Pak get hot?
Sil-Pak generates almost no heat.
Can I use Sil-Pak without a pad?
Sil-Pak is designed for use with a pad or hospital plate since it does not bond to the sole and frog.
How long does Sil-Pak last?
Sil-Pak should last the life of the shoeing cycle, and remains flexible indefinitely.
What effect does Sil-Pak have on the sole and frog?
Sil-Pak leaves a clean, well conditioned sole and frog primarily because it does not contain acids often found in other low grade silicones, such as those found in hardware stores and home centers. When acid based silicones are placed against the sole and frog, the acid does what acids do, break down whatever it comes in contact with. The result is a cheesy, smelly sole and frog.
Can I use any type of pad with Sil-Pak?
Yes, Sil-Pak can be used with any pad or hospital plate that leaves space between the sole and the pad.
Can Sil-Pak be used on laminitic or founder cases?
Sil-Pak is designed to fill space and provide cushion. When true support is needed, Equi-Pak and Equi-Build are much better at absorbing and displacing load and vibration. Founder and Laminitis cases should always be treated under the guidance of a qualified Farrier and/or equine veterinarian.
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| SIL-PAK APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Easy to apply under a pad. No hand mixing and sets in one minute.. |
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Used under pads, Sil-Pak provides a soft cushion in cases where support is not required. |
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For a silicone packing material, Sil-Pak’s liquid viscosity and fast set allows it to flow everywhere for complete coverage and superior seal. |
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After 4 weeks, Sil-Pak provides an excellent barrier against sand and debris migration. (Sole untouched before photo taken.) |
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| Super Fast |
Is the material safe to use?
Yes, there are no fumes or odors, and the material is nontoxic.
Does Super Fast give off heat?
Yes, but not as much as acrylics. The thicker the application of material, the more heat you generate. On large restorations, apply in layers.
How long does it take to set?
There are two set times. The first is at 2-3 minutes. At this point the material is weight bearing and the hoof can be put down. The final cure is 12-15 minutes.
Can I nail into it?
Yes, because of the unique urethane properties, Super Fast will nail just like the natural hoof wall.
Will it load up my rasp?
No, the repair will rasp just like the hoof.
Can it be nipped?
Yes, it will trim just like the hoof and it won't be brittle like acrylics.
Does it have to be wrapped to cure?
No, Super Fast cures in the presence of air or wrapped.
Do I have to add reinforcing mesh tapes?
No, the material is strong enough without the need for reinforcing tapes.
What should I use to clean the hoof?
Normally, just nip, rasp, knife to good solid hoof structure and dry
the hoof thoroughly using a heat gun or hair dryer. NOTE: Only if hoof is oily, moisten a cloth with denatured alcohol, wipe the area being careful not to saturate, and then dry completely. Do not use acetone!
Can you medicate the material?
We do not medicate the material because we don't recommend covering up any site that may become infected. Let the site heal and then repair.
Can it be used to glue on foal extensions and glue-on shoes?
Absolutely, it works great! Use Super Fast.
Can I “Hot Shoe” with Super Fast?
No, we don't recommend “hot shoeing” with Super Fast.
Do I have to use a mix tip?
Yes, this will give you a much stronger material over hand mixing.
Do I have to use your tips?
Yes, they are designed to mix a urethane where the others are designed to mix acrylics. You'll get the equivalent of a hand mix if other tips are used.
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| SUPER FAST APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Super Fast allows the farrier or veterinarian more custom options for foal extensions than traditional glue on applications. |
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Super Fast gives the farrier and veterinarian the tools to level feet, build heels and support the hoof wall. |
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Super Fast allows the temporary protection and support for unshod horses. |
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When nailing is not an option, a package of Super Fast and Equi-Build provides support and weight distribution for foundered horses with thin, shelly hoofs.. |
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| Adhere |
What is the purpose of Adhere?
Adhere is a multi-purpose hoof wall restorative and adhesive to glue on clipped aluminum, steel, and polyurethane horseshoes. It is formulated to be as close to the natural texture and flexibility of hoof wall as possible. It rasps, nips, nails, and allows clenching, just like the hoof.
Click here for product introduction video.
What should I use to clean the hoof?
Normally, just rasp, brush, and dry the hoof thoroughly using a heat gun or hair dryer. NOTE: Only if hoof is oily, moisten a cloth with denatured alcohol, wipe the area being careful not to saturate, and then dry completely. Do not use acetone!
How long does Adhere take to set?
Adhere has a set and a cure time. The set time is approximately 1 minute and it becomes weight bearing at approximately 3 1/2 to 4 minutes. The cure time from application is a total of 8 minutes.
Can I hot shoe with Adhere?
No, Adhere is a urethane plastic and CANNOT be used for hot shoeing.
Is the any difference other than color between black and beige Adhere?
No difference at all.
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| ADHERE APPLICATION PHOTOS |
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| Technical Help |
CARTRIDGE PREPARATION
1. To open the cartridge, remove the tip at line with nippers. Insert cartridge into
dispensing gun, label side up.
2. Before attaching the mixing tip, equalize the cartridge by squeezing out a
small amount to ensure that both sides are dispensing evenly.
3. Attach a mixing tip by pressing and twisting clockwise.
4. When finished, do not release the pressure with the lever on the back of the
dispenser. Remove the mixing
tip immediately, discard, and replace the cap.
The pressure can now be released. Caps are available from
your dealer.
5. For additional applications, re-equalize the cartridge, and attach a new tip.
Click here for video on procedure.
HOOF PREPARATION
1. Trim and balance the hoof and conservatively pare the sole. Remove any weak
or soft material that will exfoliate in the next 2-3 weeks, especially at the white
line area.
2. Using a hoof knife trim and clean the frog, bars and commissures. Remove all
loose sole and dirt with a wire brush.
3. Pay special attention to the bars. The bars should not be lying over onto the
sole as this could cause a pressure point. If the bars are lying down, trim them
back to proper position.
4. NOTE: Only if hoof is oily, wipe the affected areas with a cloth moistened with
denatured alcohol being careful
not to saturate the hoof. Do not use acetone!
5. Have all materials ready (including contouring plastic and prepare the
cartridges) before proceeding to the
next step.
6. Holding sole upward dry hoof thoroughly using a heat gun for 30-45 seconds.
Do not overheat. Keep heat
source approximately 6 inches away from sole.
NOTE: All hooves contain natural moisture and must be dried exactly in the
manner described above. This step is critical for the product to achieve the
appropriate bond to the sole.
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OTHER HELPFUL VIDEOS
Helpful Hints for Using Vettec Products
Product Setting Times and Working Temperatures
Cleaning Vettec Dispensing Gun
The Three Golden Rules
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