About the ZHTP
The Zoo Hoofstock Trim Program (ZHTP) is dedicated to creating an awareness of the importance of hoofcare in zoological facilities. Through educational courses on maintenance and preventative hoofcare, ZHTP will enable zoo staff to better aid in the comfort and soundness of their hooved ambassadors.
Importance of Hoof Care
Animals under human care do not typically have the opportunity to travel the distances required to maintain sound, functional hooves. In most cases, zoo hoofstock goes several years without appearing to “NEED” trimming based on what individuals perceive to be “NORMAL”. Until now there has been no formal training on assessing when trimming is required. We are now understanding that, in most cases, long-term overgrowth seems to contribute to more severe pathologies such as severe arthritic changes and fractures of the distal limb. Through awareness and maintenance trims, we can help prevent hoof overgrowth and minimize the occurrence of these pathologies.
About the ELPO
The Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO) is dedicated to questioning, monitoring, and improving upon practices regarding hoof care.
Topics Covered During the Course
- Basic hoofstock lower limb anatomy
- Leverages on the hoof capsule and its possible effects
- Recognizing distortions in the hoof
- Cadaver hoof trimming & dissections (equine & bovine)
- How hoof tissue changes while trimming
- Live animal trims at one local zoo
- Tool usage, i.e. hoof knives, nippers, rasps, dremels, grinders
What’s Included in the Course
- 7 Day Hands-On Course
- Tools & Study Materials
- Hands-on with Cadaver Feet
- Hoof and Limb Dissections
- Day at Regional Zoo
- Lunch Daily
- Boarding with Full Kitchen on site
- Transportation to and from the airport and around Loveland, CO
Cost of 7 Day Course = $2,000
2023 Course Dates
- February 16 - 22, 2023 - FULL
- June 22 - 28, 2023 - FULL
- August 3 - 9, 2023 - FULL
ZHTP Sponsored HERO PEMF Device Information Flyer
To Order Visit: ZHTP and HERO Order Form (jotform.com)
About the Lead Instructor
Steve Foxworth has been a farrier in northern Colorado since 2002, working with horses ranging from backyard pets to high performance horses across disciplines. In 2007 he received his Lameness Specialist Certification from the Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO) and has had great success in turning around lame horses and helping them become sound.
Shortly after becoming a Certified Lameness Specialist (CLS), Steve was asked to assess a lame zebra at the Denver Zoo, opening the door for him to work with a variety of exotic hoofstock and allowing the ELPO to conduct a wild equid hoof study. In 2013, Steve formed a relationship with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and has been integral in the development of a giraffe hoof trimming protocol.
Steve continues to be an integral part of the ELPO and its commitment to research, education, certification, information, and professionalism. He is committed to passing on his knowledge and experiences through teaching and speaking opportunities at clinics, workshops, and conferences.
