Characterization and identification of bacterial flora from infected equine hooves

Background: The aim of this study was to characterize and identify the bacterial flora associated with a specific hoof infection in a population of horses in the Rochester NY area. Methods: Samples taken from horses showing symptoms of infection were first grown on a Brain-Heart Infusion (BHI) solid medium. Forty different bacterial colonies were obtained and characterized microscopically and biochemically. The identity of these bacteria was also confirmed by 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing. Results: We have identified normal inhabitants of the skin such as Staphylococcus epidermidis as well as bacteria of the genus Bacillus commonly found in soil. In addition, bacteria such as Enterococcus gallinarum and Lactobacillus normally found in the intestinal tract of mammals were recovered. Interestingly, Corynebacterium xerosis, which is known to cause animal diseases was also isolated from infected horses. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the infection affecting the horses is likely the result of the presence of multiple bacterial genera including members of the normal skin and gut flora, as well as soil bacteria.