Evaluation of a novel training course for hoof trimmers to participate in a Swiss national cattle claw health monitoring programme

INTRODUCTION The main goal of the resources project «Healthy claws - foundation for future» is to establish a Swiss national claw health monitoring programme cattle, similar what has already been established in other countries (e. g. Finland, Sweden). So far course project, 30 trimmers have trained use digital recording software. An appropriate training concept and information work environment are necessary ensure that recorded data good quality. newly developed was evaluated using first project. consisted group events individual schooling sessions, during which were recognise, classify digitally record foot disorders according «ICAR atlas». At end programme, demographic relevant about collected their abilities when software, as well recognising classifying pictures or live animals, evaluated. at showed an ageing profession (43% participants over 50 years old), lack full-time (23% worked 90% 100%), neglect locomotion scoring trimming (no standing from 60% movement 33% participants) broad method (90% indicate this method). average Cohens kappa value 0,74, thus overall substantial agreement with author, respectively ICAR Atlas, achieved identification classification disorders. It also noted, all capable software practice after schooling. calculation values helps recognise fall below limiting therefore show insufficient agreement. These can be excluded scientific evaluation undergo further training. concluded described suitable programme.