FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE:

A THREAT TO HOOF TRIMMERS

As hoof trimmers become more experienced and knowledgeable of their profession, their value to the dairy producers management program increases.  Disease prevention and control is always at the top of the list of concerns for the dairy manager.  Because hoof trimmers handle all the cows in a herd individually in a restrained highly observable situation,  a competent and experienced hoof trimmer is in a unique position  to help identify certain diseases and enable early treatment to prevent or reduce substantial economic losses.  

A serious outbreak of Hoof And Mouth Disease in Europe and other parts of the world is cause for concern in the United States, both for dairy producers and hoof trimmers who depend on the producer for employment.  A problem of this magnitude would be devastating to hoof trimmers whom would be restricted from traveling from farm to farm because of the highly contagious nature of FMD.  Irregardless of the consequences, hoof trimmers must be vigilant and report any suspicious abnormalities found on claws similar to the picture below.  Click the following link to contact the USDA and/or other personnel responsible for preventing the spread of FMD. emoc@aphis.usda.gov