Episode 18: Healthy Hooves, Healthy Herds

Episode 18: Healthy Hooves, Healthy Herds

From Maximum Production by Holstein Friesian NZ

July 14, 2025 · 58 min · Season 1 · Episode 18

About this episode

This episode features hoof trimming expert Stuart Rogers discussing lameness and hoof health in dairy herds.

In this episode, we sit down with hoof trimming expert Stuart Rogers from Hoof It to dig into one of the most critical issues affecting dairy productivity: lameness. From the shed floor to the latest in hoof care technology, Stuart shares practical, experience-driven insights into hoof health, cow comfort, and the strategies farmers can use to detect, prevent, and treat lameness effectively. We explore the most common causes of lameness in New Zealand herds and discuss how training staff and using technology can support early detection. Stuart also unpacks the role of nutrition, barn systems, and concrete surfaces in hoof health, and explains how rubber mats, grooving techniques, and other comfort-focused solutions can make a real difference in herd performance. Whether you're a seasoned dairy farmer or just starting out, this episode is full of actionable advice to help keep your cows on their feet and your herd performing at its best. Check out Stuart Rogers: ⁠Hoof It⁠ Check out Holstein Friesian NZ: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Website⁠

People in this episode

Guest: Stuart Rogers

Topics covered

  • hoof health
  • dairy productivity
  • lameness
  • cow comfort
  • hoof care technology
  • nutrition
  • herd performance

Keywords

  • lameness
  • hoof health
  • dairy farming
  • cow comfort
  • hoof care
  • nutrition
  • early detection

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Hoof It, Holstein Friesian NZ

Places: New Zealand

More episodes of Maximum Production

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Maximum Production podcast page.