Pro Paddocks

Pro Paddocks

Paddock paradise for horses questions - Please reply!?

Can a paddock paradise be used for horses that are shod?
If yes, are there pros / cons?
Is it expensive to achieve a good paddock paradise?

I am a firm believer, and used these ideas when I purchased the property I'm on. I didn't do everything advised, but kept it all in mind. I bought land with hills, and double fenced so I can use the track or the main pasture areas. I installed multiple gates to create several areas to choose from. I excavated and added rock and lime surfaces, and the hills provide drained pasture during muddy season, as well as breezy grazing areas with limited insects in summer. We built a run in shed with a dry lot around it, and gates to access the different areas so they can come in to the shed from any area. the run in has fans in summer, and heated water in winter. It is rubber matted on each end with 3 sided "stall" areas, and an open center. My horses are barefoot, and can comfortably travel on gravel or other hard surfaces. thier hooves are rock hard and trimmed with a mustang roll. I never have any problems with cracks, chips, bruises, abscesses, or any of the typical hoof problems One is an Arab, and the other is a Paint....they are 22 and 23 years old....and are literally never sick. Any horse can benefit from the exercise afforded by a pasture paradise, but the hoof conditioning it affords won't happen if the horse is shod since the shoes prevent the circulatory benefits.

	Ariat Paddock Boots English Quantum Performer Black Womens 10004871 List Price: $199.95
	These are the women's Quantum Performer Pro with premium full-grain leather upper and a moisture wicking and breathable lining. They also have a padded collar at topline and an elastic twin gore. This boot is equipped with a bridle stitch detail on toe cap, stabalizing lateral motion control device, and a Duratred outsole.

	Ariat Ladies Quantum Devon Zip Paddock Boots List Price: $199.95
	These are the women's Quantum Devon Pro with premium full-grain leather upper and waterproof construction. They have a padded collar at topline and a moisture wicking and breathable lining. This boot also has an elastic twin gore and an and antiqued brass zip system...