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Pig hoof trimming

 
Posts: 87
Location: Northern Ontario
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Does anybody have advice on keeping hooves trimmed on large pigs?

400lb sows and equally large boar to be taken care of

I'm looking for advice on trimming.

But also I wonder if creating an abrasive surface that they are forced to walk on could solve the problem long term. Think rough stone or concrete pad around their feeding area. They would spend time walking/moving/jostling for position at the feeder and may naturally wear those hooves down. Thoughts?
 
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Location: southern Illinois, USA
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Great question.  The only advice I have received ( that I do not follow) is to get them drunk on beer and roll them over on their side.  Somehow, the idea of a 400 pound drunk pig did not seem like a good idea.   I will be watching this thread for ideas.
 
John Rosseau
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You may also need a hefty amount of beer! I'm sure they would lap it up though. Agreed that it's probably not the best solution. On commercial farms I believe they restrain and hoist the animals - not possible with my operation...
 
John F Dean
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Hi John,

I have searched for such a contraption that is affordable.  I can’t locate one.
 
pollinator
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Just bumping this thread to see if there is any new news and views regarding pig hoof trimming.  We've used bolt cutters, horse hoof trimmers, and other tools more for sheep and goats, but older pigs can have some hard, twisted hoofs to trim.  As an added aspect, we are in the 'Aging Homesteader' years and what we once could compensate for with youth and strength is more difficult these days.  Powered trimmers are less desired as the pigs are hyper-irritated by the noise.  I was hoping something like the Fiskar's PowerGear concept had made it's way into hoof trimmers, but have not seen this yet.  Any insights here would be welcomed.  Thanks!
 
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