Independent and farm relief hoof trimmers gathered in Fermoy this week for training with Dutchman Pieter Kloosterman.

Pieter is well known all around Europe and travels to many countries lecturing, training and certifying hoof care operators.

He has visited Ireland many times in the past and he first came to Ireland over 30 years ago.

At a training day this week, I spoke to Maeve O’Keeffe, who is now representing an independent body or association of hoof care trimmers from all over Ireland.

Maeve said: “It is important that all hoof trimmers are represented by a strong organisation, whether they are working for FRS or the Irish Cattle Hoof Trimmers Association. Member benefits include discounted insurance and information on open days and information meetings. We are always looking for new members. Please make contact on 087 953 9581 regarding membership.”

Hoof trimmers regularly meet up around Ireland to check that they each are doing the job properly and to learn new methods. Their objective is to deliver a good service to dairy farmers. Like so many other health issues with animals, prevention is the name of the game. Often it is too late when a cow is lame and a better option is to have some regular hoof care carried out on the herd to prevent cows going lame.

Ned Dunphy, Waterford Farm Relief, said: “We classify hoof trimmers into Category 1, 2 and 3. Category 3 hoof trimmers are only starting, Category 2 trimmers have been working on farms and have completed at least one check day, while Category 1 trimmers have lots of experience, completed a check day and have completed a diploma in hoof care.

“All hoof trimmers want to deliver a good service and it is only by experience and good instruction that will happen. That’s why we are here today and that’s why we are so lucky to have Pieter Kloosterman with us.”

Pieter held three training days this week for FRS and independent hoof trimmers and tomorrow (Friday), he will hold a diploma day to certify another batch of professional hoof trimmers.

Pieter Kloosterman is renowned as the top hoof care expert /tutor in Europe having worked for many years in Oenkerk, an Agricultural training college in Holland. He now travels all over the world lecturing, training and certifying hoof care operators. He has visited Ireland many times in the past and was first brought here by FRS back in late ‘80s.