Animal welfare and proper hoof maintenance is an industry-wide concern, not unique to any one breed or management system. As a result, this project was a joint effort, generously supported by Jersey Canada, Holstein Canada, Semex, and Dairy Farmers of Canada. Together, a series of eight short videos were produced addressing correct hoof trimming techniques, and the impact a quality hoof trim has on locomotion and injury prevention. Expert hoof trimmer, Kiyoshi Kamei of Beeton, Ontario, demonstrates hoof care essentials for the video series. Mr. Kamei is a respected hoof trimmer with over 30 years experience caring for the hooves of Canadian dairy cattle. His clients include the Shurgain Research Farm, Semex Alliance, Alta Genetics, Rocky Mountain Holsteins, Continental Holsteins, Rexlea Jerseys, Avonlea Genetics, Enniskillen Jerseys, Grayclay Jerseys, and many other quality dairy producers. Mr. Kamei is renown for his understanding of preventative hoof care and maintenance, as well as dairy foot and leg physiology. Throughout the video series, viewers will learn why proper hoof care is considered the foundation of cow health. The videos tell a story on how to observe locomotion to assess overall hoof health, how to trim feet to maximize cow comfort and traction, as well as discuss how foot angle and bedding type play a significant role in which techniques to use when trimming.
