NOVEMBER 18, 2018 - TIP OF THE DAY

The following "Tip of the Day" is provided to assist you with horse and farm management.  It is an idea developed by and/or used by Leslie Raulin.  This tip is available to you at your own risk.  Leslie Raulin does not make any claims or warranties nor does she have any financial interest in any products that may be mentioned.
HOOF THERMOMETER
(an excellent gift for friends, trainers, etc!)
My hand is not a very good thermometer!  Every time I am concerned a hoof (or hooves) is/are warm, I wonder if my hand is telling me the truth.  About four years ago, I read an article on the internet (unfortunately, I do not recall the reference) that discussed using an infrared thermometer for measuring hoof temperature.  I decided to give it a try.
NUBEE TEMPERATURE GUN NON-CONTACT INFRARED THERMOMETER
MAX DISPLAY ADJUSTABLE
There are many infrared thermometers available via Amazon.com.  Since my barn colors are blue and white (and sometimes red, white and blue), I chose a blue one.

This thermometer is available for $35.15 on Amazon.com (click here).  According to Amazon.com:

  • Red laser pointer for precise aiming
  • Auto power shut off
  • Distance spot ratio 16:1
  • Engineered to high precision standards. Accurate readings from -58 to 1382 Degree F (-50 to 750 )
  • Temp readings for current and max temperature
  • Instant-Read with less than 1 second response time; auto shutoff at 15 seconds when idle
  • Celsius and Fahrenheit switchable
  • Standard 9v battery (included)
  • Padded, protective carrying case with belt loop (included)
  • Low battery indicator
  • Ability to measure hazardous, inaccessible and moving objects
  • US FDA, FCC, CE, ROHS approved

It is an Amazon Prime product with 3.7 out of 5 stars (108 reviewers).
HOW I USE THE INFRARED THERMOMETER:

Whenever I have concern about a horse that may involve hoof problems, I use the thermometer to evaluate hoof temperature.

In the photos below, Ollie was lame.  With just a point on any spot on his hoof wall (take the mud off first!), I determined temperatures.  Ollie's normal temperatures are in the low 60s.  This day all four feet were in the mid to upper 70s.  Ollie had acute laminitis in all four feet (fortunately, treatment resolved the laminitis without any damage).
I have been using this thermometer for about four years.  It has been helpful in establishing baseline temperatures, determining elevate hoof temperatures, and monitoring resolution of hoof problems.  A few years ago I gifted one to my trainer. Enjoy!