Lameness prevention program for your cow
Time:
2025-07-02

Why should I trim?
Hoof trimming plays an important role in prevention and therapeutic treatment of lameness in dairy cattle. Lameness prevention through hoof trimming has both positive economic, as well as welfare benefits to dairy cattle. A strong hoof health program has been shown to lead to increased milk production and reproduction, among other benefits.
When should I trim?
Most farms set up hoof trimming programs with a twice a year approach with the addition of therapeutic trimming to cows displaying signs of overt lameness. Discussing with your veterinarian based on the needs of your cattle to determine the most appropriate timing for your herd. The benefits of timed trimming are maintenance, as well as early detection of lesions. Early lameness detection increases herd wellness and efficacy of treatment, which can subsequently mitigate downstream costs and repercussions of lameness.
What supplies do I need to trim?
- Leather gloves
- Safety glasses or shield
- Hoof disc
- Hoof nippers
- Hoof tester
- Hoof knives
- Vet wrap
- Cotton
- Hoof blocks
- Glue for hoof blocks
- Heat gun
- Chute system for adequate restraint