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Jump to What Silver Whinnys™ Do

 

stop the obsessive stomping that destroy hooves and shoe sets.  Horses begin early in the season to stomp obsessively to rid themselves of biting insects on their legs.  The percussion of stomping not only breaks and splits the hooves, but also drives shoe nails right up through the wall of the hoof. Horses that have arthritis, founder, or laminitis, suffer pain from the percussion of stomping and finally if the pain of the stomping is more than the pain caused by the biting insects, the equine will simply give up and let the flies chew.

 

stop insects from biting the legs Did you know? One fly can carry over 33 million disease-causing microorganisms on the inner and outer surfaces of its body. Now, think of everything a fly crawls on in your barn and surrounding environment.

It’s a gnarly list of possibilities, not including other farms and horses it visited before landing at your address. Flies rarely travel far from where they were hatched, but can be lured by attractive odors and piggyback long distances on air currents in a quest for food and places to reproduce. While the philosophical question, “How many angels fit on the head of pin?” remains unanswered, these less-ethereal winged visitors gain entry into buildings through openings not much larger.

Flies transmit disease primarily because they feed on waste, decaying matter, and feces whose bacteria then sticks to its mouth, footpads and hair like tendrils. Compound this with the fact that flies defecate roughly every four to five minutes and -- because they have no teeth -- take nourishment in liquid form, spewing vomitus or spittle laden with bacteria on solid food and letting it dissolve before eating, and the result is a perfect delivery system for infection.

It's enough to never let you look at flies the same way again, and more importantly, you don't want to look at them spitting and worse on your horse's legs

 

silver ions embedded in the fibers of summer whinnys® (SILVER WHINNYS™) are hard at work inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi and mold in the socks. These elements create a clean environment in which wounds, summer sores, abrasions, scratches, mud fever, and other dermatitis issues can heal.

 

Wick moisture from the leg. Moisture management fiber wicks moisture from the leg, keeping them cool and creating an environment that is difficult for bacteria and fungi to grow. Put the sock on your own arm and feel how cool they are.

 

Allow air to reach the skin. Open sores need air. Sores and abrasions stay wet and slow to heal without air. Silver Whinnys™ are a breathing antimicrobial knit. Consult your veterinarian before replacing any bandage with Silver Whinnys™.  Your vet will know when it’s safe to move from compete coverage to our Silver Whinnys™ socks.

 

Are designed to allow for the free motion of the fetlock and pastern joints relieving the stress on the sock which would otherwise contribute to the sock falling down. Silver Whinnys™ can stay up for the entire day on most horses. You may only need to adjust them in the evenings and mornings but check and adjust them as needed once in the morning and once in the evening. Go to Q&A for more on how the socks stay up on the legs.

 

And what are you spending on fly sprays that don’t work? Most of the time you are spraying the largest amount of your fly spray on the legs. Save some money and let Silver Whinnys™ protect in a non-toxic way.

 

Summer Whinnys® (SILVER WHINNYS™) are easy to maintain. Take them off at least once a week to wash and dry. Throw them in the washing machine with some soap and dry them in the dryer. Machine wash and dry them. The yarns and elastic will be completely re-set for stay put protection. If you are using them as a bandage alternative, then wash them every other day to keep the copper and silver at top performance. DO NOT use bleach or chlorine products and avoid perfumed washing products as they can irritate the skin.

 

Bathe your horse while it's wearing SILVER Whinnys™. Let them dry on the leg! Moisture activates the copper and silver ions so these socks can get "wet". If the weather is constantly wet, then change the socks every day so that the silver is always hard at work.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FIRST FEW DAYS YOUR HORSE WEARS SUMMER WHINNYS®/SILVER WHINNYS™:
Fit is everything. The socks need to go over the hoof first and foremost. They will fit the leg once they are over the hoof, so if you’re in doubt about size, contact us before you purchase. Measure the widest and the longest parts of the largest hoof and then call us.

Once you receive the socks, view the video on the home page showing how to put them on and take them off. This is a very helpful video and will make your first experience with them a breeze.

Summer Whinnys®/Silver Whinnys™ stay up for many hours on most of our customer’s horses but as with any horse wear, check them twice a day- in the morning and evening to make any needed adjustments.  If you don’t see your horse twice a day, make arrangements with others to check the socks. If you can’t do this, then don’t use the socks. For the safety of the horse, horse clothing of all kinds requires an owner to observe that the clothing is correctly placed on the horse at all times.

Because we refund 30% on used socks (100% on new-unused socks), we recommend that you only try two socks on your horse to begin. Don't put all of the socks on your horse at one time! We know that good horsemen and women know better, but we are going to say this anyway. Put two socks on your horse at first, usually the front leg socks are best to try first. Watch for a few hours to see how your horse gets along with them. If your horse accepts the first two socks, then leave them on the horse overnight. Give your horse plenty of time under observation to make sure all is well with the first 2 socks. DO NOT put the other socks on your horse until the next day when you have hours of time again to observe your horse's reaction to wearing all 4 socks. Silver Whinnys™ feel different from anything else your horse has ever worn on its legs. Don't think because the horse is use to wearing wraps that it is the same thing. Don’t overwhelm your horse with new things all at once. Let them get use to the idea gradually and gently. If you use only two socks and decide they won’t work for your horse, you can return the unused socks for a 100% refund. 30% is all that is refunded on used socks. We are pretty good at helping you adjust your horse to the socks. Call us if you want help.

You have 30 days to return the socks! This adjustment period can take a week, maybe more, but the horse will eventually forget they are there. We don't care if you return the socks in a ball of yarn; you will still get a 30% refund on used socks. But give your horses a fair chance to get used to them. If you do, you won’t regret it.

Adjust the socks in the evening and in the mornings for great results and to make sure that they are in place on the leg. Typically you should expect the socks to settle a couple of inches from the knee or hock on the cannon within an 8 to 12 hour period of time.

On all other horses, mules, and donkeys, the socks are staying in place for hours providing a clean, breathing, cool, and protective environment around the leg in which sores and wounds can heal.

 

Silver Whinnys™/Summer Whinnys®
ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS

DO NOT USE THESE SOCKS ON ANY HORSE THAT WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO SAFELY HANDLE ITS LEGS.

The socks come with instructions for use and application in the packaging. If your socks have arrived without instructions go to:
Instructions for putting on Silver Whinnys™ (.pdf, large file) Silver Whinnys™ Written Instructions (Instructions, .pdf)How to take the socks off (Instructions, .pdf)

For a dealer near you go to “Find a Dealer”

There are two categories of questions and answers. Click on your choice and find your questions.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SOCKS Answers questions about ordering for fit, measuring the hoof, their care, etc.

WHAT SILVER WHINNYS™ DO Answers questions about scratches, mud fever, summer sores, injuries, and how to use them as leg protection.

 

 QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SOCKS:

What size should I order?
How do I measure the hoof?
What length should I order, regular or short?
How many socks do I need?
Are the socks the same front and back?
Which is the top or bottom of the sock?
How do I put on the socks?
How do I take the socks off?
Do horses accept the socks?
Do you have socks for a horse that can’t pick up its feet?
Do you make draft size Silver Whinnys™?
Do the socks come up over the hock and knees?
Do you have hock and knee extensions in the Silver Whinnys™?
How do I wash the socks?
How long will the silver last in the socks?
How long can Silver Whinnys™ be left on?
How often do I adjust the socks?
What if I can’t adjust the socks twice a day?
Will the socks stay up?
Can I ride my horse with the socks on?
Are the socks too hot on the legs in warm temperatures?
Do I need to waterproof the Silver Whinnys™?
Are Silver Whinnys™ waterproof?
What happens if they get wet from rain or from a horse going into a pond?
How long will the socks last?
Can Silver Whinnys™ be used during the winter?
What is the difference between the Silver Whinnys™ and the Whinny Warmers®?
When do I need to keep the socks dry?
What if my horse has never had wraps or bandages on its legs? Will the socks work?

 

 WHAT SILVER WHINNYS™ DO:

Are the Silver Whinnys™ for fly protection?
Do the socks offer compression?
Can Silver Whinnys™ heal my horse’s scratches, mud fever, dew poisoning, summer sores, or a wound/injury?
Can the Silver Whinnys™ help with Mud Fever?
Will Silver Whinnys™ help my horse with Lymphangitis?
Can the socks help with dew poisoning?
My horse has bedsores. Can your socks help?
Can I continue to use the external medications my vet has recommended?
Can Silver Whinnys™ provide UV protection for my horse’s white legs?
My horse has a very bad injury on the legs. Will the socks help?
Can Silver Whinnys™ protect my horse from cuts and bruises in the paddock?
My horses come back with scratches from a competition. Will your socks prevent this?
Do you have socks or can you make socks for a dog with skin problems?
I have a draft horse with sores. Do I need to trim off the feathers?
Do I need to continue medicating the sores?
Why do you change the sox every 24 hours when sores are present?
Can Whinny Warmers® the winter socks be used as bandages for sores and wounds?
What is your return policy?

QUESTION: What size should I order?

Answer: Measure a front hoof and measure a rear hoof. Usually the front hooves are larger than the rear hooves. If there is a dramatic difference between the front and rear hoof measurements, Contact us to order 850-907-5724 or email us at info@socksforhorses.com. We may need to mix a set, one size for the front hooves and one size for the rear hooves.

Two Measurements Per Hoof Needed.

1. Length = from the tip of the toe to the end of the heel bulbs.

2. Width = the widest width of the hoof.

The best way to measure is to use a flat ruler laid across the bottom flat of the hoof. Measuring tapes can work but not as well as ruler.

The socks are sized in inches, but cm conversions can easily be made by going here.

Warmblood/Thoroughbred cannot fit over a hoof that measures more than 7”x7” width/length with a shoe. . If the horse does not wear shoes, the socks may fit 7.25”x7.25” hooves without shoes. If your horse’s hooves are larger than 7”x7” width/length with a shoe, please info@socksforhorses.com to discuss having socks custom made.

Quarter/Standard means this size is most likely for a medium size horse. To be safe, measure the hooves. There can be very large Quarter Horses that may need a larger size and there can be Thoroughbreds with small hooves and delicate legs that can wear this size.

Choose the size based on a hoof measurements. Shoes can make a difference in the size chosen. If there is no mention of shoes by the hoof measurements then the socks will fit with shoes on or off.

7.25”x7.25” Without shoes:  Warmblood/Thoroughbred size.
7.25" x 7.25" With shoes: Call us for special order.
7” x 7” With shoes :Warmblood/Thoroughbred size.
6.75” X 6.75” Warmblood/TB size
6.5” X 6.5” Warmblood/TB size
6.25” X 6.25” Warmblood/TB size
6" X 6" With shoes: Warmblood/Thoroughbred size.
6” X 6” Without shoes: Quarter/Standard
5.75” X 6” With a shoe: Warmblood/Thoroughbred size. (or call or email to discuss)
5.75” X 6” Without a shoe:Quarter/Standard
5.50” X 6” :Quarter/Standard
5.50” X 6” :Quarter/Standard
5.25” X 6” Quarter/Standard
5.00” X 6” Quarter/Standard
5.75” X 5.75” Quarter/Standard
5.50” X 5.50” Quarter/Standard
5.25” X 5.25” Quarter/Standard
5” X 5” Quarter/Standard
4.75 X 5” Quarter/Standard with a shoe
4.75 X 5” Quarter/Standard without a shoe
4.75 X 4.75 Sport Pony
4.5” X 4.5” Sport Pony
4.25 X 4.25” Sport Pony
4” X 4” Sport Pony
3.5" x 4" : Sport Pony

Standard Donkey- If you have a standard size donkey
Miniature Horses/Donkeys: Call or email us if you have conditions going all the way up the legs.
Mammoth Donkeys: Go by hoof measurement above.
Mules: Go by hoof measurement above
Any questions, please contact us at info@socksforhorses.com or call 850-907-5724.

To Purchase: Buy now.

Some horses can fit in between sizes. Socks can be custom fit. If the hoof measures too close to the top end of one size but the next size up is too large, order the larger size up. Go to this link for instructions on how to customize a fit for your horse. Adjusting The Sox For A Perfect Fit. (.pdf)

QUESTION: How do I measure the hoof?

Answer: Using a flat ruler from your desk or a tape measure, pick up the largest hoof. Looking at the flat, bottom of the hoof, measure from the front tip of the toe to the end of the heel bulbs. It is a straight line from the front to the rear of the hoof. Include the bulbs because they must also go through the socks. Then turn your ruler width-wise and measure the widest width of the hoof. Those are the two measurements you need.

 

QUESTION: What length sock should I order, regular or short?

Answer: Regular length is most often the best choice. This length will provide optimum protection up and down the leg. If the horse has EPD (Equine Pastern Dermatitis) on the legs, and the horse is allowed pasture turnout, the regular length socks are recommended.

Short version socks were created for a veterinarian who specializes in EPD (Equine Pastern Dermatitis) issues on horses in the show barns where grooms and trainers are always present and the socks can be monitored to see that they are in place over the sores. Unmonitored horses can walk out of the short version socks. Horses on turnout can walk out of the short version socks.

Where horses are closely supervised, the short version socks are easy to put on and take off when the socks need to be changed often.

QUESTION: How many socks do I need?

Answer: We recommend a set of four (4) socks as a good start. If you are using the socks for fly protection, they need to be washed every 2-3 days to keep the elastics and yarns optimized; one set will have all 4 legs protected.

If you are using the Silver Whinnys™ as a bandage/barrier for dermatitis or injuries, the socks must be changed daily and replaced with clean, dry socks. If only two legs are involved, one set of 4 socks will provide 2 socks on and 2 socks clean and ready, but this will require you to machine wash and dry a pair of socks daily. If 4 legs are involved, you will need two sets of 4 socks so that one set is on and one set is clean and ready.

Sox For Horses, Inc. offers pairs for those wanting to replace older socks with new ones. A pair of socks could be a choice if you are not sure if your horse will accept the socks. Used pairs are not refundable.

If you need the socks as a bandage/barrier for dermatitis or injuries, one pair is not enough. You would have to leave the legs unprotected while the socks are being laundered. When the socks are used as a barrier/bandage, they must be replaced every 24 hours. If the weather conditions are constantly wet and muddy, the socks must be changed twice a day to keep the silver action optimized in the socks.

QUESTION: Are the socks the same front and back?

Answer: Yes. There is no difference. Silver Whinnys™ can go on either the front or rear legs.

 

QUESTION: Which is the top or bottom of the sock?

Answer: The bottom of the sock that covers the top of the hoof and the back of the pastern is called the “Foot.” It has a colored finishing thread. Warmblood/Thoroughbred has red thread, Quarter/Standard has green thread, Sport Pony has yellow, and Standard Donkey has blue. The “foot” of the sock has a very obvious flare to it.

 

QUESTION:  How do I put on the socks?

Answer: Instructions for putting on Silver Whinnys™ (.pdf, large file)

QUESTION:  How do I take the socks off?

Answer: How to take the socks off (Instructions, .pdf)

 

Question:  Do horses accept the socks?

Answer: Start with just one pair of socks the first day. Begin early in the day when you are there to keep an eye on your horse. Don’t leave the horse alone until you know s/he is comfortable with the socks. If the first day goes well then leave that first pair on overnight. Do not add any more socks until the next day when you can once again, spend time with your horse to see how well it accepts having socks on all legs. This is a kindness. You are allowing your horse to accept the socks, not demanding that it does. Also read: What if my horse has never had wraps or bandages on its legs? Will the socks work?

Question:  Do you have socks for a horse that can’t pick up its feet?

Answer: We can custom make them. We can build them with velcro® closure up the side. Call us to order. 850-907-5724

Question:  Do you make draft size Silver Whinnys™?

Answer: Very large Warmbloods, draft breeds including draft cross, Friesians, Gypsy Vanners, and some of the large Welsh Ponies may fit into this category.

Socks for these horses are custom made to fit. We can either have them made for you or if you are proficient at sewing, you can save paying a seamstress and make them yourself. Go to this link-- Custom Silver Whinnys™ Draft Sox (.pdf)--to see instructions on how to make your own custom draft socks. If you need help to determine how many socks to order or would like Sox for Horses to create the socks for you, call us at 850-907-5724 with your hoof measurements. Costs are subject to how many socks are used to make a set or pair.

 

Question:  Do the socks come up over the hock and knees?

Answer: No. They do not. They come up to the knees or the hocks and then with wear, settle to about an inch or so below. It’s possible with a smaller horse that you can use the short version of the Warmblood/TB size Silver Whinnys™ to accomplish the protection, but it is best to call us if you have a special need. With a smaller equine, a short version sock might work above the knee. If your horse is a quarter horse or standard size horse, purchase the Warmblood/TB Short version sock. Start with a pair to make sure they will work for your horse. If you have a donkey, order a Quarter/Standard size Short version pair.

Question:  Do you have hock and knee extensions in the Silver Whinnys?

Answer: Not officially. We have Hock/Knee extensions only for the Whinny Warmers®, the winter socks, but they are not appropriate for summer wear. They are made of an entirely different yarn meant for warmth and do not use nearly as much silver yarn as the Silver Whinnys™.

We are hoping to make Silver Whinnys™ hock protection socks that can help owners with bedsores on the hocks. It is a custom project for the time being, but if you have a horse in serious trouble as a result of open sores on the hocks, best to call us.

 

Question:  How do I wash the socks?

Answer: Machine wash and dry the socks using warm/hot water and medium/high heat to dry. Machine washing is the best way to clean the socks before putting them back on the legs and will restore the fit of the socks. Avoid bleach as it breaks down the elastics. Avoid detergents with fragrances, as these are cheap chemicals that should not be placed against angry, open, tissue. A “free & clear” detergent is always the best choice. Avoid fabric softeners or fabric softener dryer sheets as these introduce another chemical substance that coats the silver yarn and prevents it from acting optimally in the socks.

You can use something like Oxiclean® for stains, but stains do not inhibit the silver from functioning in the socks. The socks are going to get dirty. Machine washing and drying is way to clean them.

Washing and drying the socks often is the best care for Silver Whinnys™ and it helps to restore the function that allows the socks to stay in place on the legs.

Question:  How long will the silver last in the socks?

Answer: The silver is embedded in the yarn of the socks. It will not degrade or wash out for the life of the socks.

 

Question:  How long can Silver Whinnys™ be left on?

Answer: Ideally the socks should be worn all the time when protection is needed unless your horse is being exercised or ridden. It is recommended that the socks be changed every 2-3 days with clean, dry socks IF your horse does NOT have any dermatitis, sores, wounds, or fungal infections.

The silver in clean dry socks is at peak ability to inhibit bacteria and fungi for only 24 hours. After that, the action of the silver diminishes as the barn dirt eventually overwhelms the silver, and the socks must be washed to regain their effectiveness.

If your horse has dermatitis, sores, wounds, fungus infections, or an injury, the socks must be changed at least every 24 hours and replaced with clean socks so that the cleanest bandage/barrier is always in place over those conditions. Healing can happen when sores/wounds/injuries are protected against insects and the dirt of the environment.

Question:  How often do I adjust the socks?

Answer: Like any horse wear, the socks should be observed/adjusted 2X a day. Horses are rough on clothing. Buckles can break. Velcro® can come apart. Garments can tear. Fly masks can become twisted on the face. Silver Whinnys™ can’t hurt your horse, by falling down on the pastern, but you don’t want to leave them that way. Observe/adjust as needed 2X a day. Make sure when you adjust them that you line up the knit straight on the leg. Don’t twist the socks. When taking them off, pull them up first, straighten them so that the knit is straight and then remove them. Observing/adjusting the socks 2X a day will help the socks last longer.

 

Question:  Do the socks have to be observed/adjusted twice a day?

Answer: Yes.

 

Question: What if I can’t adjust the socks twice a day?

Answer: Ask a friend to help you adjust the socks when you can’t be there to do it. If you board, ask the barn manager to help. If no one can help you observe/adjust the socks twice a day, the socks aren’t for your horse unless you have a very bad dermatitis issue. Then measures must be taken to make sure they stay in place over the sores/wounds 2x a day. Email us to help you figure out a way to get this done.

Question:  Will the socks stay up?

Answer: Silver Whinnys™ will stay up for hours on the legs. We’ve sold thousands of them so they must be working. They can be challenged by an equine just like any other leg protection. Drop us an email if you are having trouble, and chances are good we can help you.

Reading the instructions, putting on only two socks the first day, and not putting socks on the other two legs until the next day is the recommended way to begin. Give your horse time to get used to them. Silver Whinnys™ do not feel like anything else your horse has had on its legs. It moves with the leg unlike bandages and wraps. Start early in the day. Observe how your horse reacts to them. If by the end of the day, the horse is comfortable with the socks, leave them on overnight. Add socks for the other two legs the next day.

Having the correct fit is important, as the socks have to go over the hoof but not be too large. If you are in doubt about what size to order, go to “What size should I order?” above.

As with ALL horse wear, the socks must be checked/adjusted as needed twice a day. This is one of the most pro-active steps you can take to get long life from your socks too. If a sock does fall under a hoof, you catch it quick and damage isn’t done. If you can’t get to your horse twice a day, ask someone at your boarding facility to check/adjust them for you. If no one can do that for you, our socks are not for your horse.

Socks can come down the horse’s leg. Obsessive stomping drives socks down so it is best to start protecting equine legs early in the season before habitual and obsessive stomping can begin. The hard percussion of stomping can break hooves and drive shoe nails up through the hoof. It can certainly cause the socks to come down. Adjust the sox as often as needed until your horse realizes that flies are no longer biting its legs.

Horses can rub the socks down if they have itchy skin issues, or decide they like the feel of rubbing their face in the socks. Adjust them 2X a day.

If you have a youngster that is in constant “go” mode, you must get creative. There isn’t much that will stay on a young horse, and the socks are no exception. But if you have an injury or dermatitis, the socks become a bandage. Protecting them is important. You might put the socks on upside down so that the younger hose cannot walk on the “foot” of the sock. You also can put a fly boot over the socks to help them stay in place. You’ve invested in a great tool that can help you get the job done so protect them as you would any bandage. Email us if you need help.

If your horse and all the buddies are out in the pasture having their own private rodeo, with a good deal of running and bucking going on, the socks will come down. Adjust the socks.

If you horse lies down and rubs the legs, the socks will come down. Adjust 2X a day.

Question:  Can I ride my horse with the socks on?

Answer: Sox For Horses, Inc. does not endorse riding a horse wearing the socks unless a full performance boot is used to keep the socks in place. Keep an eye on the position of the socks on the legs even if a boot is worn over the socks. We have heard that the socks are used to prevent boot abrasions. We have also heard of trainers taking the excess length of sock above the performance leg boot, folding it down over the top of the boot, and using duct tape to hold it in place. We expect this technique is very effective in keeping the socks in place beneath the performance boots. Caution: Bell boots are not leg boots and will not keep the socks in place!

Nothing replaces due diligence in making sure the socks are in place on the legs when riding or exercising, even with boots.

 

Question:  Are the socks too hot on the legs in warm temperatures?

Answer: Silver Whinnys™ are made with a moisture management yarn that wicks moisture from the skin surface. This yarn is already instinctively cool, but the wicking action of the socks also cools the legs. The socks can be worn in the heat of the summer temperatures and the colder temperatures of winter. The socks are white to reflect sunlight adding additional support to the cooling science behind the yarn.

Question:  Do I need to waterproof the Silver Whinnys™?

Answer: NO! Waterproofing will put a coating on the silver yarn and prevent it from doing its job. Do not waterproof them. Change the socks 2x a day if protecting sores and wounds, if the weather is constantly wet and muddy.

 

Question:  When do I need to keep the socks dry?

Answer: During the winter when a horse is outside. Winter presents a lot of problems with bandaging as everyone knows. For many horses that are still battling scratches and mud fever, the socks are needed. Keep them as dry and warm as possible during turnout. Snow and ice can build up on the socks because they are collecting warmth and moisture from the legs. This attracts ice and that can make them very uncomfortable on equine legs. As you know, directional standing wraps cannot be used in the pasture. They can cause damage to tendons. To address the winter healing horse and stay with our believe that horses need to move, we created the Whinny Wellies®. Whinny Wellies® are meant to protect sox and bandages from winter weather while the horse is outside. They are a wintertime raincoat for equine leg.

Question:  What happens if the socks get wet from rain or from a horse going into a pond?

Answer: Water is not an issue in itself. If conditions are constantly wet and muddy, that is an issue. The socks will do their best to pull the moisture from the skin surface. Socks must be changed at least 1X daily for healthy legs. Clean, dry, socks are important when conditions are constantly wet and muddy as bacteria and fungi are propagating at enormous rates in the environment. Ask anyone who has a horse suffering from mud fever. Constant wet conditions are the enemy. The silver in the socks can only handle that for 24 hours if being used for just fly protection, but if there is a serious dermatitis condition then changing the socks 2X a day with dry clean socks is highly advised.

The socks can get wet and they will dry out and no harm done. But if the environment is constantly wet, you must be aware of the escalated growth of bacteria and fungi and keep the socks changed so that they can continue to protect the legs.

Question:  How long will the socks last?

Answer: Though we hear from repeat customers who have had their socks for a number of years, the answer is that it depends on your horse. The socks are made to last but they aren’t made of Cevlar®. Though made of durable yarn, if your horse is rough on other horse wear or chews on other types of leg wear including bandages, chances are the socks will have a shorter life. If you need fly protection and the horse has destroyed other leg wear, most likely the horse will destroy the socks as well.

If you are using the socks for a bandage over dermatitis or injuries then protecting the socks from destruction becomes imperative! In order for the socks to help, they have to be over the sores/wounds. You may have to wrap over them (while in a stall, not pasture), or tape them down to the hoof on lower pastern issues. A soft, no turn Davis Bell Boot® can become your best friend in keeping the horse from ruining the “foot” of the sock while you are trying to get a lower pastern or heel bulb area healed; these boots have been very helpful in keeping the horse from getting to the socks. “Bitter Apple” rubbed on the bell boots might also be an aid in convincing your horse to leave them alone. Try using a fly boot over the socks to protect them and keep them over the sores or wounds. If the horse is tending to walk on the foot, and the foot is needed to cover a lower pastern area, then use the fly boot to support the sock up above.

As a protected bandage, socks can last a long time and the constant washing and drying that is needed to keep clean socks on the horse’s legs everyday is actually good care of the socks. Their value will be demonstrated everyday by saving you the money of expensive bandaging materials. The silver will not degrade or wash out of the socks and is there under the toughest circumstances, for the life of the socks.

It’s also possible that the length of the socks will make a difference to your horse. A horse that is hostile to the regular length socks might respond favorably to the Short Version Silver Whinnys™ and vice versa. The Short Version socks require attention to keep them in place. They are an excellent bandage option when the socks can be monitored but are easy for a horse to walk out of if in turnout.

Question:  Can Silver Whinnys™ be used during the winter?

Answer: Yes. Many equine owners are trying to resolve dermatitis issues and injuries well into winter. Silver Whinnys™ are a year-round bandage/barrier. Winter presents challenges to any bandaging but Silver Whinnys™ are adaptable and there are many ways of protecting them from the snow, rain, mud, and freezing temperatures while they protect the wounds and sores on your horse’s legs. The key is to keep them warm and dry on the legs. Using directional standing wraps cannot be used in the pasture to protect the socks. They can cause damage to tendons. If you have a small turn out area, then a water proofed NO-BOW standing wrap over the socks can be very helpful in keeping the socks dry. They can help to keep the legs warm and the socks dry and clean in a small turn out area. DO NOT put directional standing wraps on your horse and turn it out to pasture.

If your horse needs some time outside, and you don’t have a small turn out area, take the socks off until you bring the horse back in. Then clean the legs and put the socks back on.

Question:  What is the difference between Silver Whinnys™ and Whinny Warmers®?

Answer: The yarns and the functions of the yarns are the difference. Silver Whinnys™ are made with a silver embedded yarn. They are leg protection for wounds, sores, and injuries. They provide protection against the insects that carry disease from one infected animal to another. They are cool on the leg in the summer and they are tolerant of being wet, even being on the legs while a horse is being bathed.

Whinny Warmers® are a winter sock only. Made with Celliant® yarn known for its ability to increase circulation, they offer warmth and comfort to horses that suffer from Cushings, Equine Metabolic Syndrome, founder, laminitis, or arthritis during the cold winter temperatures.

Question:  What if my horse has never had wraps or bandages on its legs? Will the socks work?

Answer: We don’t know. However, we know that there are trainers using them to teach young horses about leg wear. They find them a perfect vehicle for teaching.

We’ve had horses that are known for tearing off bandages and leg wraps accept Silver Whinnys™, but it was a trial and error thing. When the horse is very difficult, try the Short Version socks first. Buy just one pair. We find that these horses might protest the regular length socks and accept the Short Version socks. It’s interesting. See what your horse will accept.

If the socks are the first leg wear your horse has experienced, put them on early in the day, when you can spend time observing your horse. This is training 101! It’s important for horses to learn to accept leg wear. It’s important that you give your horse that training experience “hands on” with your full attention to getting a good result. Don’t put the socks on and leave. That’s not training.
Go to: Do horses accept the socks?

WHAT SILVER WHINNYS™ DO

QUESTION: Are the Silver Whinnys good for fly protection?

Answer: Yes. Success with any fly protection comes from starting early in the spring before your horse begins to stomp obsessively as a habit. Silver Whinnys are double-layered socks that insects cannot penetrate to cause more damage to the legs.

 

QUESTION: Do the socks offer compression?

Answer: Silver Whinnys™ utilize a safe level of compression to stay in place on the legs. They offer a resting level of compression but not tight compression. If they are very tight on the leg, they may be too small for your horse. You should be able to slide your hand, if not a large hand, snuggly between the sock and leg. The stretch of a sock allows it to go over the hoof. The light level of compression causes it to come back and conform to the leg.

The socks can help to control stocking up and offer legs rest after competition. They will not roll like a rubber band on the legs.

QUESTION: Can Silver Whinnys™ heal my horse’s scratches, mud fever, dew poisoning, summer sores, or a wound/injury?

Answer: Sox For Horse, Inc. makes no claims that the socks will heal, cure, or prevent leg conditions. Silver Whinnys are a knitted, high tech bandage providing a barrier against the insects and dirt of the equine environment. Links to the “Studies” page and “Testimonial” pages are provided at the end of this answer.

Silver Whinnys™ represent the necessary combination of attributes that are needed in leg protection. Embedded silver in the yarn inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold in the socks, providing a clean environment around the leg. The yarn wicks moisture from the skin surface, creating a dry tissue surface. Silver Whinnys™ are knitted socks that allow air to reach the skin. Insects cannot penetrate the double layer of the sock to cause more damage to the legs. These qualities add up to a clean barrier that can protect the legs while they heal and prevent insects and dirt from causing further damage. Silver Whinnys™ are made to assist owners in resolving these difficult issues utilizing the best in a bandage/barrier.

When dermatitis issues are very bad and low on the pastern, near the bulbs or the top of the hoof, and your horse is out in pasture, you might consider adding a pastern wrap if the socks are being pushed off the skin by the grass. A wrap can securely and safely insure the sock material is constantly over the pastern regardless of the horse's activities in the field. One good one that we have found is the Equifit Pastern wrap as it is non-neoprene. Though you will lose the air reaching the tissue, healing is not slowed down as long as the hygienic environment that the Silver Whinnys provide are against the skin tissue. We know this from working with wounds in bitter cold sub-zero temperatures where the wounds had to be wrapped in order to prevent them from healing. See our study page, case Jeta. Air is good, but protection is a necessity and that can mean making sure the sox stay over the pastern tissue.

Go to Testimonials to read what other equine owners have to say and visit the “Studies” page to see the results that other owners have achieved.

QUESTION: Can the Silver Whinnys™ help with Mud Fever?

Answer: Yes. Mud fever appears during constant muddy and wet circumstances regardless of summer or winter and is difficult to completely heal. Silver Whinnys™ offer the protection to keep the skin clean and dry. It takes more effort to heal anything in these conditions, and though the socks can keep wounds and sores clean, they must be changed 2X a day for the silver to optimally inhibit the exponentially propagating bacteria and fungi in the socks in wet conditions.

Keeping the socks as dry and clean as possible can help but when a horse is on turnout 24/7, changing the socks twice a day is the way to keep the silver hardest at work.

When dermatitis issues are very bad and low on the pastern, near the bulbs or the top of the hoof, and your horse is out in pasture, you might consider adding a pastern wrap if the socks are being pushed off the skin by the grass. A wrap can securely and safely insure the sock material is constantly over the pastern regardless of the horse's activities in the field. One good one that we have found is the Equifit Pastern wrap as it is non-neoprene. Though you will lose the air reaching the tissue, healing is not slowed down as long as the hygienic environment that the Silver Whinnys provide are against the skin tissue. We know this from working with wounds in bitter cold sub-zero temperatures where the wounds had to be wrapped in order to prevent them from freezing. See our study page, case Jeta. Air is good, but protection is a necessity and that can mean making sure the sox stay over the pastern tissue.

To keep the sores clean, the socks must cover the sores. Don’t duct tape over any of the skin areas. Air should be allowed to reach the tissue.

Sox for Horses hopes to offer waterproof covers for the socks soon. This will aid the owners in keeping these bandage/barriers hard at work protecting the legs while the sores heal. Check out Isaac and Ana on the “Studies” page.

QUESTION: Which is the top or bottom of the sock?

Answer: The bottom of the sock that covers the top of the hoof and the back of the pastern is called the “Foot.” It has a colored finishing thread. Warmblood/Thoroughbred has red thread, Quarter/Standard has green thread, Sport Pony has yellow, and Standard Donkey has blue. The “foot” of the sock has a very obvious flare to it.

 

QUESTION: Will Silver Whinnys™ help my horse with Lymphangitis?

Answer: We know that it is critical to heal the secondary infections on the skin surface when trying to help a horse with lymphangitis, lesions, and other forms of infection-driven edema and tissue stresses. Silver Whinnys™ maintain a clean environment around the legs useful for reducing dirt and debris near any pre-existing wounds/sores, and they reduce the bio-burden on the contact surface of the socks. They provide the protection needed to help owners make forward progress in eliminating the secondary infections. The light compression is proving to also be a benefit in helping to control the edema resulting from Lymphangitis.

QUESTION: Can the socks help with dew poisoning?

Answer: Dew poisoning is partially caused by excessive moisture for prolonged periods on the grass. The wicking fiber of the socks will pull the moisture from the skin tissue, keeping it dry. When dermatitis issues are very bad and low on the pastern, near the bulbs or the top of the hoof, and your horse is out in pasture, you might consider adding a pastern wrap if the socks are being pushed off the skin by the grass. A wrap can securely and safely insure the sock material is constantly over the pastern regardless of the horse's activities in the field. One good one that we have found is the Equifit Pastern wrap as it is non-neoprene. Though you will lose the air reaching the tissue, healing is not slowed down as long as the hygienic environment that the Silver Whinnys provide are against the skin tissue. We know this from working with wounds in bitter cold sub-zero temperatures where the wounds had to be wrapped in order to prevent them from healing. See our study page, case Jeta. Air is good, but protection is a necessity and that can mean making sure the sox stay over the pastern tissue.

When the horse comes back from the pasture, you can inspect the socks to see if they are wet and change them if so. Most of the time, the socks will dry on the horse after the dew is gone. We’ve heard this works great and we’ve heard that existing cases of dew poisoning go away when the socks are changed daily with clean, dry socks. Dew poisoning must have a wet, warm, environment to persist. The socks are cool and they keep the skin tissue dry while allowing air to reach the skin.

QUESTION: My horse has bedsores. Can your socks help?

Answer: It is important to resolve bedsores quickly as they can turn into chronic pressure ulcers that become repeatedly infected and more difficult to heal. The longer a sore remains unresolved, the weaker any new skin or tissue developed will be. Weakened tissue is the revolving door of nearly healed to back-to-open oozing. Bedsore boots by themselves can be problematic if your horse has skin reactions to neoprene, the most commonly used material for boot construction

Every situation is different for horses with bedsores. You must heal the sores first. Silver Whinnys™ can work in tandem with bedsore boots to make them more effective and safe against your horse’s skin while preventing further injury. They will help to keep the heat from building up beneath a neoprene boot. The socks will continue to wick the moisture from the skin and keep the environment around that damaged tissue clean.

Fitting hocks can be an issue if you have a large horse. Sox For Horses can make custom hock socks made of the same silver yarn that can work in concert with a bedsore boot. These are not expensive. We are happy to discuss individual situations and help owners find the appropriate application for their horse. Knees continue to be a challenge, but we know others have successfully used the socks in protecting and healing sores on the knees.

In our research, we’ve found that Hock Shield® makes the best hock boot. They work great in harmony with the socks we make for the hocks. They are very functional design. They also make a very good fetlock boot and we understand they are working on a knee boot! We continue to encourage them in that direction.

EquiPro offers a very good fetlock boot. This is a neoprene boot and a good one. We know some horses have skin reactions to neoprene, but with the Silver Whinnys™ beneath, these boots are rough and tough and can protect your horse and the socks while the skin heals. After the sores are healed, the fetlock boot and the socks can continue to protect against re-injury. After the sores are healed, the hock boot and fetlock boots used by themselves or with the socks can continue to protect against re-injury.
Both companies are very customer-and results-oriented.

 

QUESTION: Can I continue to use the external medications my vet has recommended?

Answer: Yes. External medications can be used with Silver Whinnys. Our job is to partner with your veterinarian by being a part of his/her healing strategy. If they have a preparation or medication they feel necessary, it should be continue to be used.

 

QUESTION: Can Silver Whinnys™ provide UV protection for my horse’s white legs?

Answer: Yes. They can provide protection for photosensitive skin, usually white-legged horses. Silver Whinnys™ are not UV chemically treated but are a double layer of knit and are white to reflect sunlight from the legs.

 

QUESTION: My Horse has a bad injury on the leg. Can the socks help?

Answer: It depends on the injury and where the injury is in progress of healing. SFHs offers deconstructed Silver Whinnys™ as a medical tubing which can be a very effective bandaging option. The right choice will depend on the present condition of the injury. We also will work in concert with your veterinarian. Contact us via email. Send photos of the injury. Be sure to include your phone number so we can talk to you about bandaging options and discuss what has been done so far as well as assess your ability to effectively use the bandaging choice.

QUESTION: Can Silver Whinnys™ protect my horse from cuts and bruises in the paddock?

Answer: They are great as a bandage to protect injuries while they heal, but they are not thick enough to prevent every injury. However, my horse became tangled in some strands of barbed wire this summer. He was wearing Silver Whinnys™. Though the wire got tangled in both rear leg socks to the extent that the socks had to be cut off, his legs were without injury. I believe the socks prevented serious injury.
The best answer is to make sure your pasture is as hazard free as possible.

 

QUESTION: My horses come back with scratches from the events. Will your socks prevent this?

Answer: We have competitors who use them for this purpose. Put the socks on when you arrive and leave them on unless exercising your horse, showing, or competing. As soon as you have brought the horse back into the barn, clean the legs and put the socks back on.

Silver Whinnys™ are a bandage/ barrier against the outside environment. The silver in the yarn inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi in the socks. This makes a clean barrier if replaced with clean laundered socks every 24 hours. Bacteria and fungi require warm, moist, conditions to propagate. The socks breathe, stay cool on the legs, and wick moisture from the skin surface. Add these things together and you have good protection.

If you have a horse that is susceptible to scratches at an event, keep the socks on your horse while at the show venue. If dermatitis issues tend to appear low on the pastern, near the bulbs or the top of the hoof after a show where other infected horses have been, you might consider adding a pastern wrap over the socks if they are being pushed off the skin while the horse is in the stall. This is not something that always happens. The socks stay in place pretty good in stalls, but if in the slightest doubt, you can use a pastern wrap over the socks and increase your own peace of mind. A wrap will securely and safely insure the sock material is constantly over the pastern regardless of the horse's activities in the stall. One good wrap that we have found is the Equifit Pastern wrap as it is non-neoprene and cooler.

QUESTION: Do you have socks or can you make socks for a dog with skin problems?

Answer: Please contact us. Email us. This would also be custom work, but we have done it. Larger dogs can wear our miniature size socks on their legs for “lick” granulomas. Smaller animals would take some custom work, but we can do it.

 

QUESTION: I have a draft horse with sores on the legs. Do I need to trim off the feathers?

Answer: The socks should lie against the skin for the best protection. This is a difficult choice to make but the feathers/hair covering the scratches, summer sores, or other dermatitis issues harbor the bacteria and fungi that are causing these conditions to persist. Leaving the feathers on is like putting dirt between a cut and a bandage on your finger.

QUESTION: Do I need to continue medicating the sores?

Answer: If your vet recommends a topical application, do as your vet advises. Ask your vet for a topical that does not contain an oil base. Oils or greasy substances will coat the yarn and prevent the silver from keeping the socks clean.

A clean, breathing, dry environment around the sores can be a powerful aid in helping you heal these conditions on your horse’s legs. See the “Studies” page.

 

QUESTION: Why do you change the sox every 24 hours when sores are present?

Answer: Bacteria, fungi, and mold propagate at astounding rates, particularly when the environment is wet and warm. The silver in the socks can only inhibit the microbe growth in the socks for a certain amount of time before the bacteria, fungi, and mold have propagated beyond the capability of the silver to control it.

In a barn environment, 24 hours is the most you can ask. If the weather is constantly wet and muddy, changing the socks twice a day is advised until the weather clears and dry conditions are present. Taking these measures protects the healing and in the case of constant, wet, muddy, weather, is essential in promoting healing.

QUESTION: Can Whinny Warmers®, the winter socks, be used as bandages for sores and wounds?

Answer: No. Whinny Warmers® are used for warmth and circulation. Though they have silver yarn on the inside of the socks it is not enough silver to control the bacteria and fungi in the socks nearly as well as Silver Whinnys™, which are made with much more silver embedded yarn. Whinny Warmers® are for circulation-impaired horses or those suffering from the pain of arthritis during cold winter temperatures.

 

QUESTION: What is your return policy?

Answer: RETURN/REFUND/EXCHANGE POLICY

Call us before using them if you are in doubt about fit.
Only special order "custom- made" socks will fit draft or draft cross horses! CUSTOM MADE SOCKS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

Don't use all of the socks on your horse until you know the first pair will work for your horse. Go to: Do horses accept the socks?
SHFs will refund 30% of the purchase price on used socks that are from a set of 4. New-unused socks will be refunded at 100% of your purchase price.

You must return the socks for replacement, or refund within 30 days of your purchase. Returns must include a copy of the packing slip or purchase receipt. The cost of shipping and handling is not eligible for refund nor is return shipping costs.

Exchanges can be made with an additional payment for shipping and handling. Items that have been previously replaced because of a sizing exchange are not refundable. If you have any questions about the socks, a refund or exchanges, please call us at 850-907-5724.

SFHs recommend that you return socks inexpensively using USPS with "Delivery Confirmation". You must get the socks to SFHs for a "return" credit.

Purchase Whinny Warmers® & Summer Whinnys®/Silver Whinnys™ here

Go to Whinny Warmers® FAQs to learn more about our socks for horses.

HOW TO PUT ON OUR HORSE SOCKS
(click for video link)