The
Feet
Wall
horn is produced around the soft part of a goats foot and as this comes into
contact with the ground is usually worn away by the firm craggy rocks that are
the goats natural habitat. Unfortunately in this country goats are kept usually
on grassy areas and this horn is not worn away. As the horn grows the heel of
the foot also grows and again is not worn away. Goats prefer dry abrasive
surfaces and where possible such an area should be provided.
Because domestic
goats do not spend enough time walking on dry abrasive surfaces the owner must
pare away the horn. If this is not done then incorrect stress is placed upon the
hoof, causing cracking of the horn. The aim of paring is to remove the surplus
wall horn that tends to bend under the sole and impede normal action. Paring can
be carried out using special hoof shears, hoof knife or even a craft knife. It
is a simple job if done on a regular basis and goats rarely object once they are
used to having it done. Get the breeder to give you a demonstration before
buying your goat. It is wise to have someone to help when you first start by
getting them to hold the goat still. Paring should be done carefully but quickly
to avoid stressing your goat. Start by levelling off the heal with the remainder
of the sole then remove any horn that has grown over the sole of the foot. Next
remove both sole and horn so that they follow the line of the coronary band. Try
to imagine the sole of a kid and trim to maintain the shape. If it starts to
look pink go no deeper.
