How to Tilt a Hoof Trimming Table

Using a tilt table for large animal procedures such as hoof trimming provides greater safety for -- and less stress on -- man and animal. It increases efficiency because, with the right equipment, this procedure becomes a one-man job. It can also be used for sheep, goats and other hoofed stock. The setup consists of a rectangular unit that comprises a gate with an adjustable stanchion (head restraint) at one end and a plain gate at the other. Overall length is about 12 feet. One long side is a fence and the other is the tilt table. Attached to the table and the fence should be one or more belly bands to lift, support and restrain the cow. Individual leg restraints are optional, but recommended.

Things You'll Need

  • Tilt table unit
  • Hoof trimming tools
Show More

Instructions

  1. Restrain

    • 1

      Lower the belly band(s) to the floor so that the cow can walk over it without tripping.

    • 2

      Bring the cow into the unit far enough that her head is in the stanchion.

    • 3

      Adjust the stanchion so that it is snug but not tight. The object here is control of the cow's head.

    Lift and Tilt

    • 4

      Raise the belly band(s) until most of the cow's weight is almost (but not quite) completely off her feet.

    • 5

      Operate the hydraulic or spring-loaded tilting mechanism to lay the cow over on her side. Stop tilting at 80 degrees or less.

    • 6

      Attach the leg restraints if you are using them. These limit leg movement and prevent the cow from kicking or pawing you.

    • 7

      Trim the hooves or perform other desired procedures.

    • 8

      Release the individual leg restraints.

    Release

    • 9

      Return the table slowly to the upright position.

    • 10

      Check to be sure that the cow's legs are down and in a normal position.

    • 11

      Lower the belly band(s) slowly, allowing the cow to take her weight on her feet until she is standing normally. Once she is stable, lower the band(s) to the ground.

    • 12

      Release the cow's head from the stanchion.

    • 13

      Open the stanchion gate and release the cow from the unit.