Press Release (21 October 2009)

Essential Foot Trimming Demonstration

A demonstration on one of the most important elements in any dairy farmer's annual routine will be centre stage at this year's AgriScot event at Ingliston on Wednesday 18^th November.

Alun Garton, fully trained cattle foot trimmer, will be undertaking a live demonstration to attending farmers at the hugely popular agricultural event.

Alun, originally from Cheshire, now lives north of Blairgowrie.  A dairyman by profession, Alun undertook a training course in Holland and now specialises in that full time. He travels the length and breadth of Scotland trimming feet and offering advice and informal lessons to farmers. When he is not working, Alun along with his wife Angela, breeds Highland Cattle.

At AgriScot, Alun will be trimming the feet of six cattle over the course of the day during morning, lunchtime and afternoon live demonstrations. During each demonstration he will talk through the process in detail, demonstrating ideal length and depth of the foot.  Alun is also keen to answer any queries from the floor in order to make the demonstration as clear as possible.  He will also demonstrate how to sharpen hoof knives.

The foot trimming demonstrations are kindly sponsored by Giltspur, producers of CowSlips, unique orthopaedic shoes designed for the treatment of lameness in dairy cows.

Alun says:"Foot trimming must go hand in hand with modern milk production.  Cattle cannot walk, feed or milk properly unless foot care is part of the routine on farm.

"Every cow should be trimmed at least once a year, preferably when the animal is dried off and given a general check-up.

"If properly advised from the outset, dairy farmers can undertake this trimming themselves, but I would strongly advise that they get the experts in.  The job can be done more quickly and a professional can offer advice or a mini demonstration whilst on farm.

"I am really looking forward to AgriScot.  It is extremely satisfying to be able to advise farmers and ensure that their animals receive the best possible care and attention.  At the live demonstrations I will welcome as many questions as possible about the foot trimming process.

"When it comes to hoof care, cow slips are also an invaluable tool and a great bonus to any care regime.  Frequently used by savvy dairy farmers, they often save the lives of animals who, without them, wouldn't be a viable member of the herd."

Sponsored by