Trim Equine Hooves

Training Details

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to handle equines safely and trim hooves using appropriate techniques and tools.

The unit applies to individuals who trim equine hooves for shoes and/or natural hooves. They take responsibility for their own work and apply knowledge and practical skills to trim equine hooves as part of the hoof care plan.

Assessment is competency-based and combines theory with practical demonstration.

The unit covers the core stages of trimming:

• Preparing to trim, including a risk assessment of equine behaviour and environmental hazards and safe handling of the individual equine
• Assessing hoof condition, including removing shoes safely if the equine is shod and examining the hoof for damage, abnormalities and pathologies
• Trimming fore and hind hooves safely, within safe trimming margins and according to the hoof care plan and industry standards
• Carrying out post-trimming activities, including reviewing the work against the hoof care plan and leaving the work area safe and tidy

Find more information on ACMFAR313 – Trim Equine Hooves on training.gov.au.

Learning Outcomes

• Prepare to trim equine hooves safely, including risk assessment and PPE
• Assess hoof condition and gait to inform the hoof care plan
• Trim equine hooves safely using appropriate tools and techniques
• Carry out post-trimming activities and finalise the client visit

On successful completion you receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment for ACMFAR313 Trim Equine Hooves.

Performance Evidence

An individual demonstrating competency must satisfy all of the elements and performance criteria in this unit. There must be evidence that the individual has:

• Trimmed and provided hoof care to the fore and hind limbs of at least four equines of different ages, and work or discipline requirements
• Demonstrated safe handling techniques and position for trimming hooves of each equine

Knowledge Evidence

An individual must be able to demonstrate the knowledge required to perform the tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit. This includes knowledge of:

• The purpose of trimming, including hoof balancing, the effects of trimming on stance and movement, and the limits of safe trimming
• Requirements and techniques for trimming barefoot hooves and trimming for shoes and other hoof protection, and how to recognise irregularities in equine movement and gaits
• Tools and techniques for trimming fore and hind, shod and unshod hooves, including tool maintenance and sharpening
• Features and variables of hoof care plans relating to equine age, type, work activity, performance discipline, environment and diet
• The role and effect of hoof care products, and the restrictions on advice that can be given without straying into veterinary diagnosis or treatment
• Relevant regulations, codes of practice and workplace procedures for handling, PPE, infection control and biosecurity, and animal welfare principles and ethics