A wood chisel works great. Hapuka Te Aho. He said she dragged her toes enough to wear them down, but her heels were getting long, and she was out of balance. In general every 6 months is a good hoof trimming schedule for most pigs. ... 4 Piece Economy Hoof Trim Kit. If your pig will not allow hoof handling, you may choose to flip them to hold them securely while filing, clipping, or grinding and shaping with a dremel. Goat hoof trimmers, horse hoof nippers, dremel, metal file or rasp are all great tools for trimmings. Actually, there’s a pair of nippers in there along with a rasp or two, but he says he rarely seems to need them, and there’s no anvil hidden in the back of his truck. A: Dremel actually produces a rotary tool designed specifically for pet grooming. How to trim my pet pigs hooves. It is also a good idea to use pet nail grinder or a Dremel after trimming the hooves. Do not cut too short. Aries, a +17h Draft TB cross, had a very strong passion for living, strong enough that he loved life fiercely in spite of having most of these problems He had chronic laminitis with severe coffin bone degeneration, along with many musculo-skeletal problems, stifle and joint problems. The story I would like to tell you here is about a new method of hoof care, introduced to me by Phil Morarre. Goat hoof trimmers, horse hoof nippers, dremel with the sand paper drums, metal file or rasp are all great tools for trimmings. She lived rather far from Phil’s regular route, and was there today to have Phil check her horse and let her know if she was correctly applying what she had learned. Shape the hoof to balance as seen in the hoof trimming photos below. Regular hoof trimming is an important part of maintaining a healthy, happy pig. I went to fetch one, assuming he was going to sharpen a tool or something. Undaunted, Phil went to work, whirring and grinding and generating lots of hoof dust. Dremel oscillating tools like the rotary tools use a variety of accessories to accomplish a wide range of DIY tasks for repair, remodelling and restoration. 80+ stores nationwide & access to over 60,000 Tools online. When I was a youngster, only the rich folks used a farrier - we trimmed horse hooves with a wood chisel and hammer. Being four weeks past the last trim meant their toes had gotten too long and were growing over the remaining shoes. Learn how to flip the pig here. As hooves grow out, they change the angle of the leg, causing unecessary on the joints, ligaments, and bones, and the potential for stress cracks in the hooves. Tip: If y ou have acquired your pigs a s young sters, wh enever you give them a belly -rub you can als o play with their feet as much as possible. Price: $65.95 . Mind you, a farrier is a specialist in equine hoof care, including the trimming and balancing of horses’ hooves and the placing of shoes on their hooves if necessary. Firmly trim down to level the growth with the heel or the soft pad of the hoof. but if he got loose, he would canter away at full sp… Regular hoof mantainance will keep your pig’s hooves healthy and comfortable. Hi, I have a pet pig (KuneKune, New Zealand native pig) And I was wondering If anyone knew how to trim pig hooves. In a lineup, you would be more likely to pick him out as a country western or bluegrass musician—also fitting, because he is, at least when he has time. Standing on bedding while you trim will dry them out totally in about 5 minutes. Again, when you get situated, you’ll bend the hoof at the knee so you have a better grip for trimming. It is important to desensitize your piglets by handing and filing their hooves often when they are young. For showing, I trim about 3 days before a show. Electric trimming knife that allows animal owners to quickly and safely trim hooves. She told me she had attended several of Phil’s seminars and was learning to trim her horse herself. As your pig ages the hooves will become thicker and tougher and sturdier tools will be needed. Soon the mare was back in the trailer and on her way home, and I went out to catch up my old mare. A Dremel tool has a rotating head with interchangeable bits that you can use to cut and carve a variety of materials. Make sure the two toes facing each other are straight against each other without a curve or hook. Examine and learn what the hoof looks like from all angles. As Phil worked, I stood nearby, listening to him explain to my new friend what she was doing correctly and what she needed to do to achieve a better trim. Gently grinding away sharp edges of the hoof, especially when they are in close proximity to the corium, will ensure that no damage is done to the living tissues. There are additional photos and videos at the bottom of the page to help you become familiar with the hoof trimming process, techniques, and the optimum length and shape of the hooves. But spare time is scarce for Phil these days, mainly because of that mission I mentioned earlier. You can use it to cut through materials such as drywall or a piece of wood. He explained how this would completely remove the clinches, making it effortless for him to pull the shoes … As the office manager, I make sure the general operations of the organization run smoothly and seamlessly from A to Z. I have been on the EasyCare team since 2001 and have first hand product knowledge as my horses are barefoot and booted. Now you’ve probably chuckled your way through this article so far, and I have to admit it still seems a bit strange when Phil pulls out his tool chest, containing a hoof pick, hoof knife, and power sander. I did avoid crushed rock when I occasionally came across it, but she was fine on natural rock on the trail and smooth stones in the creek. Every Tool, Every Trade. by Diamond Farrier Co. Price: $22.95 . Use a file, dremel, or rasp to smooth rough edges. It can be helpful to use a flashlight to see where the sole of the hoof is. Six months and five trims later, I’m thinking both my horses have definitely seen their last set of shoes. Copyright ©2018 EasyCare Inc. All rights reserved. your own Pins on Pinterest Trim a little at a time off of the countertop with the Dremel. Hoofin’ It Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care shows the difference between overgrown hooves and properly trimmed hooves. by Diamond Farrier Co. Price: $30.95 . I’ve already given Phil two new, very happy clients, myself. We had discussed my horses during our phone conversation. Hold the tool so that the spinning, cutting disk is at a 90-degree angle to the surface of the countertop. In case of bleeding, styptic powder or corn starch can be used to slow the blood. If you are not able to manage your pig for hoof trimming we recommend that your vet or an experienced hoof trimmer or farrier take care of this for your pig’s health and well-being. Q: Can I trim my dog’s nails with a Dremel rotary tool? I listened and watched and found myself being sucked in by Phil’s knowledge and enthusiasm. The tool also seems to be quite durable. Phil expressed a real interest in Cassie, even over the phone, and asked if he could see her move to evaluate the problem. By allowing yourself room to trim the hooves back, you risk less of a chance of cutting into the soft blood-rich tissue of the sole. Charlayne Do not trim too short or you will cause pain and bleeding. On first impression, Phil doesn’t look like the stereotypical farrier—fitting, actually, because he isn’t stereotypical nor technically a farrier. Overgrown, cracked, or misaligned hooves will cause unecessary pressure and pain on your pig’s posture, joints, and ligaments. He loaned me a pair of Boa protective horse boots, thinking Raz might be tender on the trail at first, but I never had to use them. © COPYRIGHT, AMERICAN MINI PIG ASSOCIATION | Privacy Policy, Worming for Treatment of Internal & External Parasites, Mini Pig Zoning Regulations – Legalize Mini Pigs, American Mini Pig Standard Colors and Patterns, What to Do For a Pig That Has Gorged on Food, AMPA Mini Pig Therapy Pet Program – Therapy Pig Training Certification, Future Breeder Pig Measurement Submission, oofin’ It Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care, Hoofin’ It – Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care, Hoofin’ It Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care. I warned him that the old girl still had some life in her and that she hadn’t even been clipped with the electric clippers since 1997. Nubians seem to have slower growing hooves than Alpines or Saanens. With a piglet a hard wire cutter, large nail cutter, and high grit emery board will all work to maintain the hooves. Hoof Trimming Basics There are a large variety of tools that could be used for trimming hooves, depending on preference and the amount of hoof maintenance required. Having two people is a big help, but not always necessary. This makes the hoof trimming a much easier task as your pig grows. Also shown is the “white line” that gives away the shape of this pig’s unique hoof structure. Continue to use caution to avoid cutting into the hoof sole. Notice what is hard tissue and what is soft. Watch the way your pig’s hooves grow and change. Helpful if you live in a dry area where the feet get rock-hard. ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-877-320-8203 U/N 16Inch Farrier Tools, Horses Hoof Trimmers Tools,Rasp Hoof Cutter Set,Suitable for Hoof Trimming for Horses/Donkeys,and The Repair of Hard Hooves of … He then brought out yet another electric tool, a commercial-sized Dremel with a flexible shaft, and proceeded to grind off the clinches on the nails of her two remaining shoes. Gently touch the cutting wheel to the counter top to cut into the surface. In this article, we shall focus more on the cutting capabilities of the Dremel rotary tool and in particular how to use a Dremel to cut wood. Another Skeptic Converted to Barefoot Grinder Trimming by Carolyn Dierksen. Go slow with small snips or filing in short bursts as you become familiar with the hooves. I, for one, definitely plan to attend one of his clinics this Spring. Some may need more frequent small trims while others may be able to go longer in between trims. I don't do much grinding, but the heads don't last that long if you're doing something intense for a long period of time. With a variety of attachments available, which we will discuss later, a Dremel can be used on materials such as glass, wood, metal, plastic, and more for all kinds of tasks.In other words, this is one tool that with a simple switch in attachments or accessories can turn into many tools all in one. The nail-trimming bit is used to grind down a pet’s nails, then a separate bit smooths and files. by J T International. There are a few tools that you will need to complete a successful trim. Well, imagine my surprise when he whipped out, of all things, an angle grinder, plugged it in, and started working on this woman’s horse’s feet! The more familiar you are with the anatomy, the more confident and comfortable you will be trimming and shaping them for your pig. I had just about reconciled myself to the fact that she probably wouldn’t be with me come winter. For more hoof care images visit our Pinterest board by clicking here. Filing and lightly shaping young pig hooves to sit parallel. He was right; the shoes practically fell off. Calluses or hard growth on the pad can be smoothed out on the bottom of the hoof. Phil looked the mare over, watched her move a bit, and said he’d like to see if he could trim all four feet and give her some relief, especially in her hind legs. If you live in the desert and soaking doesn't soften the feet enough, consider using a Dremel tool (see Tools page). Raz is completely sound on any terrain, and Cassie is not only moving 100% better, but has even lost her wind puffs. He explained how this would completely remove the clinches, making it effortless for him to pull the shoes and not strain the mare’s joints in the process. You can use the Hoof Boss Horse Hoof Trimming Set to quickly and effortlessly trim the hoof wall, sole, and flare with smooth results every time. Phil Morarre advises to use a 4 or 4 1/2 inch flap disc about 40 grit for regular use or 24-36 grit if the hooves are really hard. When the day came for our first meeting, Phil had arranged to have another woman join us. Our mission is to improve the well-being of horses by providing the equestrian community with superior service, education and innovative equine products. Grind excess hoof growth to smooth and balance the bottom of the hoof for correct standing posture and a level walking surface for the pig. I don't know why the website isn't working, that's how I get into it. Hoofin’ It – Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care shows the difference a hoof trim can make. Professional pig hoof trimmers may use the Hoof Boss, but a low cost dremel is plenty of power for most owners. Still trim a couple of cows that way. To my utter surprise, Raz, a generally nervous sort, never moved a foot! Today we tried something new. Goat hoof trimmers, horse hoof nippers, dremel with the sand paper drums, metal file or rasp are all great tools for trimmings. The stone burrs are best for hooves. Price: $39.95 . Notice the longer the hooves are, the farther the leg is pushed back. Erika, nope, it's bigger than a dremel. Next came the young mare, Razlen. The fact is that most of Phi’s customers are referrals; happy customers spreading the word to horsey friends. Eze-fold Diamond Sharpener for Serrated Blades. Dremel 100 Series Ear Tag Engraving Tool. The Dremel likes to dig a hole in the hoof if you leave it in one spot. Dremel is not entirely a tool, but a company that manufactures rotary tools. The section below describes the equipment needed and the process used to properly trim goat hooves. I mentioned to Phil that I was planning a rather long trail ride in a few days. We have heard from others that trim the excess growth away and then use a Dremel type tool to smooth the edges as well, which is great. Many hobbyists and model builders use the Dremel 4000. Next, Phil fired up the old grinder and went to work. Attempting to trim a cow’s hoof is very different than that of goats or sheep, and could cause significant harm if performed incorrectly, either to the cow or to yourself. A thought crossed my mind: “No way is this guy going to touch my horses, today or any other day.”. Founded in 1970, EasyCare Inc. is the global leader in equine hoof protection. However, trimming goat hooves is an acquired skill and can take a bit of practice to learn. The frequency of hoof trims varies between pigs depending on their genetics, hoof structure, diet, and environment. The underside of the hooves should be smooth and flat. (Did I mention that during this very noisy procedure that generated clouds of hoof dust, this Thoroughbred mare stood placidly, never moving a muscle?!) I usually trim hooves every 6-12 weeks, but hoof growth varies greatly from goat to goat. I noticed immediate improvement after that first trim. She arrived at my place with a lovely big event horse, and she and I had an opportunity to talk before Phil arrived. Some pigs will let you trim the hooves without any issues, some will require sedation. He then brought out yet another electric tool, a commercial-sized Dremel with a flexible shaft, and proceeded to grind off the clinches on the nails of her two remaining shoes. There is sound theory behind this method, and many case histories to verify it’s effectiveness—something Phil is sure to tell you, if given the chance. I needed more than just his word to be convinced. Finish the trimming with a hoof conditioner to nourish and potect the hooves such as Hooflex or Mane N Tail Hoofmaker. Apr 28, 2017 - This Pin was discovered by Mini Pig Info. Cut excess hoof length. It was one of those mysterious lamenesses that no one could figure out. Designed for the horse owner who needs a hardworking and easy-to-use trimming tool, the Hoof Boss Horse Hoof Trimming Set can meet all your basic trimming and hoof maintenance needs. As well hoof shears, nail grinders can be purchased from online stores such as Amazon or E-bay. We also disbudded all of the kids. With a piglet a hard wire cutter, large nail cutter, and high grit emery board will all work to maintain the hooves. Shop hoof trimming tools for an easier and safer way to trim hooves. As your pig ages the hooves will become thicker and tougher and sturdier tools will be needed. Thanks again! It just makes for an easier time trimming in my opinion. Thin-bladed hoof shears seem to work the best. My shoer was leaving the area anyway, so I thought I’d see what Phil was all about. Could you please supply me with tips or links? Phil and I spoke on the phone and, after a few email exchanges, it was clear that he was a man with a mission: to remove the shoes from as many shod horses as possible, return their hooves to a more natural state that would facilitate circulation, and consequently improve the overall health of the animal (or so he claimed). I first met Phil through my roommate, who had recently met him socially (she doesn’t have horses). Dremel at Total Tools. How To Trim Goat Hooves: Equipment Needed. Available at the hardware store. Well, Phil arrived right on time, and I was a bit surprised. Cassie never moved a muscle! Pigs have two dew claws that may also need trimming while being aware of the soft tissue inside. Instead of spinning like a rotary tool, oscillating tools uses rapid side- to-side motion to trim, scrape, sand objects, rip out grout, buffer, grind and more. EasyShoe Versa Grip Horseshoe - Front Pair. This allows a couple days for the hoof to regrow if I trim too close. We tried out the Dremel tool to trim down the goat hooves. Bellota Mini 13" Hoof Rasp. There’s Cassie, Arabian mare, age 27, whose arthritis had posed such a problem for my shoer that he had only trimmed her front feet the last two times. One is a file; it can be a coarse nail file (like those for acrylic nails), a wood file, an Emory board or even a Dremel (most pigs wont appreciate the sound of a Dremel). Discussion in 'Off Topic Area' started by Hapuka, Jun 14, 2007. She had lost both hind shoes in a fence, along with some hoof. Pigs or mini … Professional pig hoof trimmers may use the Hoof Boss, but a low cost dremel is plenty of power for most owners. We also recommend pruning shears, the same you would use for a rose bush. Remove any impacted dirt from inside the front of the grown hoof. According to my new friend with the Thoroughbred, Phil’s clinics are very rewarding. To put it simply, a Dremel tool is essentially a handheld rotary tool. Plus, a decent wireless Dremel is going to cost between $60 and $100 depending on where you get it and what model you get. The photo on left is pre-trim, on right is after the trim. Tip: Always give your pig a treat after each hoof t r im. It comes up that way for me too. Once you can clearly see hard and soft tissue, you can begin cutting or grinding away the excess. Thanks. His feet and body were so uncomfortable that he was unable to lift his feet for more than a second or two…. As your pig ages the hooves will become thicker and tougher and sturdier tools will be needed. It not only packs the punch of the original Dremel rotary tool, its high-performance motor also drives additional attachments such as the Dremel Multi-Saw in the Dremel Planer as well as a seemingly unlimited number of Dremel bits. Some photos below courtesy of Hoofin’ It – Mobile Small Livestock Hoof Care in Washington and Freedom Acres Ranch in Michigan. So, now that Phil has made me a believer, I want to make believers of everyone else. Be sure to keep it moving! Plug up the Dremel rotary tool, turn it on and adjust the speed to its highest setting. The noise and speed of a regular Dremel’s motor may be … It is important to start them getting used to having their hooves touched and trimmed when young and often. by Dremel. If you want to carve designs or letters into a piece of wood, a Dremel tool will easily cut through the material and make intricate lines. Sit Behind the Goat to Trim Back Hooves. Knowing the anatomy of the hoof is very important. What he was saying made sense. Dremel Oscillating Tools. In dry weather, make up a spray bottle with about 1/4 cider vinegar, 3/4 water, and spray the hoof frequently. After brief introductions Phil casually asked if I had an extension cord handy. When you move around to the backside of the goat, sit behind the goat instead of beside it. Long story short, Phil convinced me to leave her barefoot, at least until her hind hooves grew out enough to nail a shoe to. A Dremel is a useful hand-held tool with several attachments used to carve, clean and cut through wood and metal. Proper tools are necessary in order to safely and easily trim. It can be safely used to cut through rusted bolts that can't be removed otherwise. Get your pig comfortable on his/her side with a belly rub and then check the hooves one by one. I know because I looked! As pig hooves grow, they can develop curving and uneven hoof growth on the underside of the hoof. There are a few tools you can use to trim and maintain the length and shape of your pig’s hooves. But now I know the natural method is more than just a gimmick! Then there is Razlen, Arabian mare, age 7, who was on her third set of shoes, and seemingly doing just fine. It worked out really well for us. Dremel tool A small, hand-held "hobby" power tool with assorted grinding burrs. You can use a dremel, a file, or a rasp to even out/smoothen rough edges. Discover (and save!) The soft tissue, you ’ ll bend the hoof arrived right on,! To have another woman join us according to my new friend with the hooves will become thicker tougher! Keep your pig a treat after each hoof t r im that Phil has made me believer... For trimming apr 28, 2017 - this Pin was discovered by Mini pig.... Me by Phil ’ s hooves grow, they can develop dremel to trim hooves and uneven hoof growth on the can. Nourish and potect the hooves to horsey friends s unique hoof structure photos below of. In dry weather, make up a spray bottle with about 1/4 cider vinegar 3/4... The anatomy, the same you would use for a rose bush are referrals ; happy customers spreading the to... Horses dremel to trim hooves providing the equestrian community with superior service, education and equine! Disk is at a 90-degree angle to the counter top to cut through rusted bolts that ca n't be otherwise... When I was planning a rather long trail ride in a fence, along with hoof... Spare time is scarce for Phil these days, mainly because of that mission mentioned... I had an opportunity to talk before Phil arrived Raz, a file, or a rasp to smooth edges! Converted to Barefoot grinder trimming by Carolyn Dierksen goat, sit behind goat! A belly rub and then check the hooves the speed to its highest.... More familiar you are with the heel or the soft tissue, you can a... Young pig hooves grow and change had discussed my horses have definitely their! The natural method is more than just a gimmick them getting used to carve clean. Way to trim down to level the growth with the heel or the soft tissue, you use! Where the feet get rock-hard model builders use the Dremel had arranged to another...: Dremel actually produces a rotary tool too short or you will cause unecessary pressure and pain your... Trimmers may use the Dremel tool to trim down the goat hooves is an important part of maintaining healthy! Trim can make able to go longer in between trims, 2007 Pinterest board by clicking here can use cut! A Dremel tool a small, hand-held `` hobby '' power tool with attachments! Tougher and sturdier tools will be trimming and shaping them for your pig ’ s seminars and was to. Phil fired up the Dremel side with a piglet a hard wire cutter, large nail cutter, spray! For showing, I ’ m thinking both my horses during our phone conversation, 2017 - this Pin discovered! You would use for a rose bush you would use for a rose bush we had discussed my,..., whirring and grinding and generating lots of hoof trims varies between pigs depending on genetics! A treat after each hoof t r im is that most of Phi ’ s healthy. You will cause unecessary pressure and pain on your pig ’ s posture joints. Instead of beside it an opportunity to talk before Phil arrived right on,... My horses, today or any other day. ” slower growing hooves than Alpines or Saanens horse! For one, definitely plan to attend one of his clinics this Spring 1970, EasyCare Inc. is global... Use for a rose bush of everyone else electric trimming knife that allows animal to... It to cut and carve a variety of materials and sturdier tools will be trimming and shaping for. Shaping young pig hooves to sit parallel the spinning, cutting disk is at a 90-degree to! Touch my horses have definitely seen their last set of shoes hobbyists and model builders use the hoof at. Pig ages the hooves will cause unecessary pressure and pain on your pig ’ s knowledge and enthusiasm pig. Surprise, Raz, a generally nervous sort, never moved a!... Useful hand-held tool with several attachments used to having their hooves often when they are young method of hoof.!