Hoof trimmer (Livestock)

This will affect the animal’s mobility, wellbeing and productivity - growth in beef cattle or milk production in the dairy sector. In addition to the impact on animals, it can also be serious financial issue.

A good hoof trimmer is a highly trained, experienced and skilled individual so they can appraise, evaluate and alter the shape of the horn on a cow’s foot. A hoof trimmer will therefore have extensive knowledge of bovine leg and foot anatomy. They will also be familiar with a wide range of foot lesions and their respective treatments. 

The role is physically demanding. It can involve handling up to 50 animals in one day. For safe hoof trimming, cattle must be correctly handled, so as not to compromise their welfare, within a purpose-built and well-maintained foot trimming device known as a crush. This machinery holds the livestock safely and securely in an appropriate position while their feet are trimmed using specialist tools and a standardised technique. The modern fully hydraulic handling system reduces the physical work of the trimmer, allowing them to concentrate on trimming and low-stress cattle handling.

Most hoof trimmers travel to their clients and generally work on the cattle between milkings - typicall after 8am and before 3pm. Having a good working relationship with farmers built on successful interventions and excellent listening is a key skill hoof trimmers possess. This is definitely a job where experience is the largest factor in success, however starting out with solid training through the relevant providers, such as Lantra or the Cattle Hoof Care Standards Board, and receiving mentorship from expert hoof trimmers will set you up for success as a cattle foot trimmer.

The role is tremendously satisfying and most trimmers will say that knowing the animals will be more comfortable and more productive after their work is their greatest reward.

This role will involve travelling from farm to farm and you will need to have your own transport and equipment if you are running a small business as a contractor. It should be noted here that all equipment and the handling system - if it's your own - will have to be subjected to biosecurity measures between sites. If you work for a larger organisation, such as a veterinary group that offers this service, they may provide the relevant equipment.

• Maintaining a good working knowledge of livestock leg and foot anatomy to ensure correct identification of growth issues, infections and abnormalities
• Ensuring your knowledge of the causes of lameness at farm and herd level, the common risks that lead to lameness and foot lesions and their appropriate preventive measures is up to date through continuing professional development
• Rectifying the common issues cattle have through the expert use of the specialist equipment and tools at your disposal 
• Recognising key indicators of livestock health while handling them for trimming
• Demonstrating sound livestock husbandry skills while livestock are in your care
• Undertaking the process of hoof trimming in the most efficient and careful manner possible with all aspects of animal welfare in mind
• Managing the operation, mechanics and biosecurity maintenance of the livestock handling system and other equipment
• Efficient use of standard livestock handling systems

• Have a good level of physical fitness
• Have a keen eye for detail and be able to spot problems
• Be able to work with care and focus and follow instructions effectively
• Enjoy being hands-on with animals 
• Enjoy working with others but able and confident when working independently 
• Be able to communicate well with others and maintain good working relationships

As a hoof trimmer, you will be able to operate mechanical equipment competently and leave hooved animals in improved comfort and long-term health. You should also be able to use your experience and communication skills in an advisory capacity to help farmers manage the overall health of their herds.

The role would suit someone with a keen interest in livestock anatomy and welfare. 

Employers may appoint a candidate based on experience or subject interest alone, however a relevant qualification in agriculture or a related anatomy-based qualification would also be beneficial and may increase your options. If you plan to run a small business as a hoof trimmer you will also need to become familiar with managing your own business too. 

This figure depends on factors such as location, nature of business and level of experience. Some hoof trimmers will combine this work with other ancillary services on farms, such as freeze branding and livestock scanning (see our Livestock scanner job profile for more information) to ensure year-round full-time work.

There are high initial costs involved in setting yourself up, with a second-hand cattle handling system and associated equipment alone typically costing more than £15,000 but the most sophisticated models for handling a lot of animals can be in excess of £50,000.

Tools and a vehicle will also be needed. 

For example, you could further develop your knowledge and skills through further training courses to start your own business or act as a consultant, trainer or equipment supplier.

Poor or untrained hoof trimmers will cause negative welfare issues, and it's advised that all practising trimmers undergo extensive training and ongoing continuing professional development (CPD).

Trying to get experience with an established trimming business can be a good way in and vet practices which specialise in large animals will sometimes employ or train their own trimmers. After this point it's very much a focus on experiential learning and short specialist courses to hone your skills.

There are a number of specialist courses and CPD opportunities available in relation to foot trimming and checking of competency. One of these is recognised by the National Association of Cattle Foot Trimmers. Other courses offered through Lantra-approved training providers and supported by the Cattle Hoof Care Standards Board (CHCSB) offer a robust theoretical and practical background for novice cattle foot trimmers. 

Apprenticeships

There are no formal apprenticeships exclusively related to this role, but hoof trimming is something you may wish to progress to following the completion of an agriculture-related apprenticeship.

Short courses and online study 

To confirm interest in a role like this and to prepare, you could complete some of the TIAH Essential Skills short online courses. Useful courses for this role are Foundations in farm safety, Biosecurity and Animal health and welfare for farm workers.