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The Solution Section (FAQ)
What is Durasole and what does it do for a horse's feet?
Durasole is a sole hardener for horses, distributed by Alvin Farrier Supply, that toughens tender hooves. Rather than coating the sole with impermeable oils, it works by swelling and thickening the cell membranes of the exfoliating sole. It is meant for horses that get tender footed on trail rides, after a rain storm, or after a trim.
How does Durasole work?
Durasole acts as a fixative on the exfoliating sole and insensitive frog on the solar surface of the hoof. It disables the intrinsic enzymes that would weaken these structures, protects them from environmental microorganisms, and alters the tissue at the molecular level to increase its strength and rigidity. The primary fixing agent is formaldehyde, which crosslinks proteins into a meshwork that stabilizes the tissue and preserves its structure.
Will Durasole help a horse that just had a trim or had its shoes pulled?
Yes. Durasole is intended for horses that are tender footed after a trim, and owners use it during the transition from shod to barefoot. It is also used on horses prone to stone bruises that have been wearing pads, helping their feet handle rocky or uneven footing. A few drops on the sole can make a big difference because the product is highly concentrated and formulated to be used in small quantities.
Does Durasole help with thrush, fungus, or yeast?
The latest formulation of Durasole is built to do more than toughen the sole. It contains gentian violet to combat fungus and yeast infections, plus povidone-iodine solution in a concentration meant to be effective in treating thrush when aerobic conditions are maintained at the infection site. That makes it useful where wet or muddy terrain leads to both sole tenderness and thrush.
What kinds of horses and disciplines is Durasole used for?
Durasole has been used since 1978, distributed primarily through farrier and veterinary suppliers, and has been used extensively on equine athletes working over difficult terrain. It is recommended by many knowledgeable farriers and veterinarians and has kept horses sound at race tracks, show rings, and event courses, as well as rodeo arenas, endurance trails, and polo fields. Because it is highly concentrated, only a few drops are applied to the horse's sole.
Who is Alvin Farrier Supply, the company behind Durasole?
Alvin Farrier Supply is the main distributor of Durasole. It was established on October 28th, 1992 by Tom and Janice Stiefel of Alvin, Texas; Tom was a farrier of 30 years who built the company after rheumatoid arthritis kept him from actively shoeing horses. The family-run business has grown to serve walk-in, ship-out, and online customers, with a second location in Tomball, Texas, and prides itself on friendly customer service and technical assistance.
Where can I buy Durasole?
Durasole is sold throughout the country through many fine tack stores and online dealers, including Jeffers, ValleyVet, and Heartland Vet Supply. You can also buy it directly from Alvin Farrier Supply for your convenience. A few drops go a long way, since the product is formulated to be used in small quantities.
How do I order Durasole directly or get more information?
To buy Durasole directly or ask the staff for technical assistance, you can reach Alvin Farrier Supply by phone at 800-936-3636 or by email at alvinfarriersupply@gmail.com. You can also visit http://www.alvinfarriersupply.com/ to view the online catalog and learn more about keeping your horse's hooves protected.