Today on the Farm: Hoof Trimming

Just like horses, cows also need their hooves trimmed to stay healthy! Dream graciously offered to let us take pictures of her hoof trimming experience. Thanks Dream!

Here she is anxiously waiting for her turn.

When it was Dream’s turn, she stepped into the hoof trimming chute. As she’s stepping in, she steps over a belt.  The belt isn’t very fashionable, but at least it allows us better access to her hooves!

The belt then lifts her up, suspending her off of the ground.

Just like Dream, Blair Hansen agreed to let us take his picture too! Here he is tying down Dream’s feet. This is to prevent any unwanted movement which could potentially result in an accident. Dream must have know this because she stayed very still for Blair.

This is the tool that Blair uses to trim hooves. It’s a little bigger than your typical finger nail clippers huh? Thanks to Sadie Hansen for her lovely hands in this shot!

Now we’re finally ready to get trimming! Each hoof is individually trimmed with care. Just the way Dream likes it!

See all that white stuff on the ground? That’s hoof shavings from previously trimmed cows.

Look at those shavings fly!

After trimming the back feet, Blair moves on to Dream’s front hooves to finish her up.

Don’t worry Dream, we’re all done! Your hooves are nice and trimmed, making life easier and more comfortable for you. The Hansen’s trim their herd’s hooves about 4 times a year so we’ll see you again in 3 months Dream!

Written by: Christine Schick