The importance of trimming in goat and sheep farming:

why every breeder needs to be properly equipped

Hoof trimming is a crucial stage in maintaining the health of animals, in this case goats and sheep. Regular hoof trimming not only ensures the animal's well-being, but also helps prevent many diseases. Why is it essential for your herds and how can innovative equipment, such as professional electric pruning shears, transform your work?

What exactly is trimming?

Trimming consists of trimming the hooves (of sheep, goats, cattle or even horses) to maintain their hygiene and comfort. This task is particularly important on farms where the animals are often in contact with wet or muddy ground, as is the case on many sheep and goat farms. Poorly maintained hooves can lead to lameness, infection and pain, impacting on their health and, consequently, their production.

Interview with Marianna, sheep/goat breeder using the INFACO F3020 hoof trimmer

Why is hoof trimming essential for goat and sheep farms?

Trimming is essential to avoid complications arising from overly long or malformed hooves. These are areas that are particularly vulnerable to infection, especially in environments such as meadows or grassy pastures. Some species, such as Arles Merinos, have fast-growing hooves and require more frequent trimming.

Materials and equipment for effective trimming

Equipment varies according to the specific needs of the farm. While some prefer to use manual tools, others opt for more modern solutions, such as electric pruning shears, which make the job easier while guaranteeing a clean, precise cut.

Some trimmers use specially adapted roll cages to immobilise the animals in complete safety. This allows them to work in a more ergonomic way, reducing stress on the animal and improving performance. To find out more, read Cédric's testimonial on the blog.

The stages of trimming

Immobilise: by sitting the animal down or using a restraint cage;
Check the front: if there is lameness or signs of infection, special attention should be paid to these areas;
Pruning: with electric pruning shears or a suitable hand tool. The aim is to remove the excess without cutting too far back to avoid injuring the animal;
Check condition afterwards: once all four feet have been trimmed, check that the animal is walking normally and without pain.

The risks of incorrect hoof trimming

Failure to trim properly or neglecting this task can lead to serious illness. The risks include infections, abscesses and foot diseases such as foot rot, a bacterial infection that can become a major problem for the whole herd. Pruning too deep can also lead to bleeding or injury. It is essential to use the right tools and to use them with care to ensure the comfort and health of the herd.

Why invest in professional pruning shears?

Investing in the right equipment, such as electric pruning shears, is essential for a number of reasons:

Precision: the right equipment allows you to be precise when cutting, guaranteeing well-trimmed hooves without the risk of injuring the animal;
Comfort: good equipment means you can work faster and more ergonomically, reducing farmer fatigue and animal stress;
Safety: good equipment guarantees safety for both the farmer and the animal. The tool's progressiveness and its ability to stop immediately in the event of unexpected movement are crucial in preventing injury.

Marianna, Miss France Agricole 2022, talks to Groupe Réussir about her experience. Find out more about her daily life on her Instagram page: @heidiagricultrice