We are frequently presented with lame cows that someone has already “had a go” on. Incorrect hoof trimming can at best cause a longer healing time and at worst can create a cull cow!
We are able to offer one day practical training courses in the correct techniques. These training days are designed for farm staff in the South Island to improve both their knowledge of lameness issues and to learn some of the skills to treat them effectively. The day is designed to ensure that participants spend the maximum amount of time actually trimming and treating lame cattle. We have a strict policy of having a maximum of four, minimum of two students on these training days. Equipment provided. Training takes place in Canterbury and Otago. If you are outside of these areas please enquire.
In the first two photos of this cows rear foot you can clearly see that the outside claw is much longer and also a lot higher.
The higher, longer claw will bear much more weight when the animal is walking or standing on hard surfaces.
White line lesions are particularly associated with this level of imbalance in the claws.
Correct trimming will result in the cow having her weight evenly distributed through BOTH claws. You can see this becoming the case in the third and fourth photos.