Suche
Women's power in hoof care: Course strengthens self-confidence and knowledge!
A hoof care course for women took place in Berchtesgadener Land, which promoted the health and care of cattle hoofs.
Women's power in hoof care: Course strengthens self-confidence and knowledge!
A real boost for hoof care: In the first week of October 2025, a very special course took place under the motto “Women on cattle hoofs”. Ten intrepid participants tackled the topic of hoof care and learned in a two-day seminar how important the health of cattle hoofs is for the welfare of the animals and the efficiency of milk production. This initiative was launched by Bavarian Farmers' Association was launched and aroused great interest.
Course leader Pia Maria Blanz was at the helm of the course and guided the participants through the basic aspects of functional claw care. The first day began with an online training that covered the theoretical basics. On the second day, we got straight to the point: the group visited the Halsbach slaughterhouse, where they analyzed dead claws and gained valuable insights into anatomical basics and typical clinical pictures. This hands-on approach gave the women the opportunity to learn and develop their skills in a relaxed atmosphere.
Practical application and exchange of experiences
On the third day of the course, the group worked in a practical company. Equipped with hoof care tools and protective clothing, the participants worked directly on live animals. Under the guidance of experienced hoof trimmers, they had the opportunity to apply what they had learned and consolidate their skills. The atmosphere was characterized by mutual support and a lively exchange of experiences, which strengthened everyone's self-confidence.
Hoof care is not only an important issue for farmers, but is also becoming increasingly important throughout the agricultural sector. The basis for this is already being laid in many training programs, as shown by the programs at training centers for cattle feeding and hoof care. A leading institution in this area is the Experimental and Education Center for Cattle Feeding in Armpit Schwang, which offers the “Hoof Care I” course, in which participants learn the basics of hoof care and expand their practical skills. Loud Baysg This course lasts three days and is aimed at small groups of a maximum of five participants.
The four levels of hoof care training
Hoof care training follows a structured four-step model that was first presented at the World Congress on Lameness in Ruminants in 2008. This in-depth training is crucial to ensure sustainable and high-quality hoof care. In the first level, the trial course, beginners learn basic techniques for dealing with hoof care. Further stages build on this and lead to certification as a state-certified hoof trimmer or specialist in hoof care, whereby economic and legal aspects of the profession are also taken into account. Information about this can be found at Cattle Hoof Care.
The hoof care course initiative for women is an important step towards promoting craftsmanship in agriculture and integrating more women into this traditionally male-dominated field. With curiosity, courage and a good knack for animals, the participants return from this course to their everyday lives strengthened and thus contribute to the sustainable improvement of animal husbandry in the region.