Sheep and Goat Production

Sheep and Goat Production

Discussing current topics in Ontario sheep and goat production

All posts tagged hoof health

A Step In The Right Direction: The Importance of Goat Hoof Trimming

Posted on Author Jennifer MackenziePosted in Health, UncategorizedLeave a Reply

This article was written by Dr. Lisa Sharko (Lead Veterinarian Animal Health and Welfare, OMAFA). This article was originally published in the Spring 2026 issue of the Dairy Goat Digest. Introduction Healthy hooves are fundamental to a dairy goat’s productivity, longevity and welfare. Goat hooves grow continuously and in most confined goat housing systems, there is nothing abrasive to wear hoof growth down. Hoof trimming then becomes an essential herd health management task that must be performed to prevent long hooves from negatively impacting your goats. Most goats require trimming 2-3 times a year. Hoof overgrowth and lameness have significant economic impacts on your herd. Unmaintained Hooves Lead to Lameness and Production Loss When a goat’s hooves overgrow or become…

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Hoof Health in Small Ruminants

Posted on Author Andrea Bajus, Technology Transfer Specialist, OMAFAPosted in Health, Health & NutritionLeave a Reply

On August 17th and August 19th 2023, Ontario Goat hosted a hoof health clinic emphasizing the importance of hoof trimming and preventing hoof diseases in your goats. Featured speakers included Dr. Gosia Zoebel (New Zealand), Susan Schoenian (University of Maryland), Dr. Emily zur Linden (Metzger Veterinary), and Dr. Lauren Wilson (Cornwallis Veterinary Services). Inspired by the event, this blog post discusses the importance of hoof trimming and outlines hoof ailments that you may be concerned about in your sheep and goats. Hoof Trimming In intensive systems, like those in Ontario, animals are typically housed on soft surfaces that don’t allow for natural wearing of the hooves. Allowing hooves to overgrow and become deformed can cause permanent damage and increase susceptibility…

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