Re: The laugh's on me : )

["Judy Finchum" <judy@telecomm.umetel.maine.edu>]

From:        finchum@maine.edu
To:            ridecamp@endurance.net
Subject:       The laugh's on me  : )
Date:          Mon, 31 Jan 2000 16:01:40 -0500

I have used easy boots for many years,  and find them an inexpensive 
alternative to using pads.  I also use them whenever my mare is 
barefoot.  I have read past posts with interest regarding the foaming 
solution that Karen C. and others use and have considered trying 
some...even though it sounds messy and time consuming.  You see, I 
have been using my *own* method of foam....not so much to keep the 
boot on the hoof, but to keep debris out of the boot (I still like 
the original boot they made without the cup in the back).  I save all 
pieces of open cell packing foam that comes in to our department for 
varous equipment we have ordered.  The pieces are probably 6" x 6" & 
probably  3/4" thick and is usually pink or blue  : )  I fold a piece of the 
foam in half and just hold it on the bottom of her hoof as I apply 
the easy boot.  The foam covers her heel and the top of the boot.  
Looks funny, but it keeps larger stones out. ( I also tie a piece of pink 
or orange flagging to the heel strap so if the boot comes off, it is 
easier to spot)  Needless to say, we get some strange looks!

Last week I was putting together an order for supplements and noticed 
the catalog carried easyboot "skirts".  No picture, no description 
but, they were less than $2 each, so I ordered a pair.  I was curious as to how they 
would work.  I pictured something along the line of a bell boot, I 
guess.  Imagine my surprise when my order came in and the easy boot 
"skirts" were two pieces of open cell foam  : )   ! ! The only 
difference is:  I paid for this foam;  the foam is white;  and,
there is a piece of paper glued to one side with a diagram so the foam can 
be  cut according to size of the boot.  No different:   it is inserted into 
the boot and covers the horse's heel.  

Judy....still smiling
& Hilary....not having fun since the snow crusted over
Newburgh, ME