Setting The Standard In Hoofcare


Fred Hoekstra, DHI’s qualified instructor delivers hoof trimming courses and hold workshops throughout New Zealand to help farmers and industry professionals treat and prevent lame dairy cows.

Lameness is now among the farm's top three health issues, costing the industry millions of dollars every year. Our focus is to improve the skill and level of hoof care within the dairy industry to reduce lameness.

To find out more, register your interest or book your place on an upcoming one-day workshop or course; visit our website for full details.


LEARN MORE:
https://www.dairyhoofcareinstitute.ac.nz/


Fred Hoekstra is widely known throughout New Zealand for his skill and experience in hoof trimming and  for his ability to train others in this crucial  aspect of farm management.


Originally from Friesland, Holland, Fred moved out to NZ in 1990 to work on dairy farms but quickly realized that there was an opportunity for raising the standard of Hoof care so returned to Holland, gained his Diploma in Hoof Care from PTC Oenkerk, returning to start his own business.

Fred is passionate about lameness and related issues, and gained his Instructors Diploma in 2011. He is enthusiastic about extending the availability of hoof care training workshops nationwide. He is keen to conduct further research into lameness treatment and the benefits of preventative hoof care.

For the past few years, he has also presented a 2-day course for final year vet students at Massey University on the theory and practice of hoof trimming as part of their ‘Bovine Procedures Special Topic’.


- Fred Hoekstra


One-Day Lameness Management Workshop.


On-Farm Practical Trimming Days
Throughout New Zealand


This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process according to the Dutch Method.

  • The workshop has a theory online learning module and a full-day on-farm trimming practical aspect, so bring your gumboots, overalls, warm clothing, lunch and refreshments.
  • Certificate on full attendance.
  • Visit our website to learn more about the workshop, fees, and nationwide on-farm trimming dates. https://www.dairyhoofcareinstitute.ac.nz/lameness-management-workshop/

5-Day Advanced Hoof Care Management Course.


Held at DHI's Head Office in Ashburton.


This course is aimed at those serious about minimising lameness on their farm through gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors and becoming competent in the technical aspects of hoof trimming. 

This course is for you if you want to become a professional hoof trimmer.

  • This is an intensive 5-day course that covers both the theory and the practice of hoof care and hoof trimming techniques led by our director Fred Hoekstra, who is NZ’s only fully qualified hoof care instructor.

  • Visit our website to learn more about the workshop, fees, and nationwide on-farm trimming dates. https://www.dairyhoofcareinstitute.ac.nz/advanced-hoof-care-management-course/


Veterinarian Hoof Care Workshop


Nationwide On-Farm Throughout New Zealand


This workshop is for Veterinarians only.

The workshop is designed for veterinarians who want to improve their hoof trimming technique and broaden their knowledge on lameness management and treatment.

  • The workshop has both theory and practical elements where everyone will get the chance to trim cows according to the 5-step Dutch Method.
  • Competency in this method promotes confidence in dealing with any hoof-related lesions, approaching chronically lame cows and dealing with fissures, white-line disease, sole ulcers, footrot and Digital Dermatitis.
  • Certificate on completion.
  • For more information and to book, visit our website https://www.dairyhoofcareinstitute.ac.nz/veterinarian-hoof-care-workshop/


Become A Host Farm.


Dairy Farms Sought Nationwide

  • There will be no charge for trimming of cows*.
  • 50% discount is available for one staff member of host farm attending the workshop**. Staff registration must be confirmed before the workshop as we plan for a maximum of 9 people per day.
  • An opportunity for professional advice from the Instructor concerning issues about your farm!
  • Visit our website for more information. https://www.dairyhoofcareinstitute.ac.nz/benefits-of-being-a-host-farm/