Sponsored by: University of Florida and Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc.

Winner of the 2003 Honor and Plow Awards from the
Secretary of Agriculture, Ann Veneman

English MHC

Spanish MHC

This training program is specifically designed for working dairy employees or others interested in bovine foot care. Its purpose is to train individuals in basic as well as advanced foot care and claw trimming procedures. Part I of this course is accomplished by attending the course. Part II is completed over a 3-6 month period either at home or one's place of work where the techniques learned in Part I are applied and practiced. Although it is not required, persons who complete Parts I and II are eligible to take both a written/oral and laboratory examination. Successful completion of both examinations qualifies the candidate as a "Master Hoof Trimmer." The Spanish course is similar to the English course except that all lectures and course materials are presented in Spanish.

Examinations will be offered at the University of Florida in Gainesville, or in some cases, at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Participants will be required to demonstrate a working knowledge of lameness conditions as well as an acceptable level of technical skill in performing various foot care and claw trimming procedures. This is not a certification or licensing course.

EXAMINATIONS

Persons who have previously completed Parts I and II may arrange to take their examination by calling Dr. Jan Shearer at 352/392-4700 ext. 4112 or e-mail to jks@ifas.ufl.edu. If it is more convenient to take the examination in Knoxville, TN you may contact Dr. Sarel Van Amstel at 865/974-5759. Please note that examinations must be scheduled in advance and there will be a fee.

LOCATION OF SEMINARS AND LABORATORY

Lecture/demonstrations will be held at the Cabot Lodge (the official hotel for the Master Hoof Care Program). Laboratories will be held at the College of Veterinary Medicine (Food Animal Barn) and nearby cooperating dairy operations. Transportation will be provided for all participants staying at the Cabot Lodge.

Be advised that much of the course is devoted to hands-on trimming, therefore we recommend that participants bring protective clothing: rubber boots, coveralls, and gloves (if you desire). Knives, nippers and other trimming equipment will be provided

For persons coming from countries affected with Foot-and-Mouth Disease, please see the following:

FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE PREVENTION INFORMATION
FOR PASSENGERS TRAVELING TO THE UNITED STATES
FROM FMD INFECTED REGIONS OF THE WORLD

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ACCOMMODATIONS DURING PART I OF THE TRAINING SESSION

The Cabot Lodge located at 3726 SW 40th Blvd, Gainesville Fl 32608 is the official hotel for the course. They can be contacted at 800/843-8735 or 352/375-2400 (fax 352/335-2321). A block of rooms has been reserved for this course at a special discounted rate of $59.00. Please indicate that you are making reservations for the Master Hoof Care Program. The Cabot will accept business checks and credit cards. If you have any problem making payment arrangements please call either Liz Palmer (acct) at the hotel or Leslie Shearer at 352/392-4700 ext 4112 for assistance.

• Complimentary breakfast each morning
• Complimentary cocktails each evening
• Data port in every room
• Business center with computer, printer, copier and 24 hours internet access
• Complimentary fax service
• Voice mail in every room
• Iron and ironing board in every room
• Free local calls
• Complimentary newspapers
• Fitness center with treadmills, bicycle, stair machine, television, chilled water and personal radios with headphones
• Safe deposit boxes
• Express check-out
• In room movies (for a small, additional charge)
• Conveniently located at Archer Road and I-75

TRANSPORTATION

Please note that if you will be needing airline tickets, they are usually available at a better rate if purchased greater than 2 or 3 weeks in advance! The Gainesville airport is closest, Jacksonville is about 1 1/2 hrs, Orlando 1 3/4 hrs, and Tampa 2 hrs from Gainesville. The best way to get to the hotel from the Gainesville airport is by taxi.

• Gator Cab 375-0313
• Gainesville City Cab 371-1515 or City Cab 375-8294; Mgr Jackie quoted approximately $20.

REGISTRATION COSTS

The Master Hoof Care Program is co-sponsored by the University of Florida, University of Tennessee and Novartis. Registration fee is $750.00 and includes refreshments during breaks, lunch, educational materials and two hoof knives to be used in the course. Pre-registration is required. Registrations at the door will not be accepted without prior approval. No shows will not be refunded.

Enrollment is limited so that personalized instruction and hands-on training can be provided. Acceptance will be on first come, first served basis. All money will be returned in full for those not accepted. If you need additional information about the seminar contact Dr. Jan Shearer at 352/392-4700 ext. 4112.

Master Hoof Care Technician
Program Agenda

Master Hoof Care Technician
Registration Form