He's never been thrushy before, and I can't really tell or see under there with the pads on. Think I should try to get my shoer out here or the vet?
That's not laminitis, I can tell you that for sure. Unless he's standing still most of the time, not wanting to move, and standing with his front legs parked out way in front of him, it's not laminitis. Do you know how to feel his digital pulse?
I'd probably call the vet first. I'd bet the farm that it's just age related problems kicking in, though. How does he move going the other direction? Is he more lame?