Hoof keeper

What does a hoof trimmer do? – Tasks and work environment

Hoof trimmers work to prevent, identify, and treat hoof diseases in cattle and other animals within agriculture. The role involves inspecting animals' hooves, performing trimming and treatments, and advising animal owners on preventive measures and care. The work environment is often physical and outdoor-based, with activities in barns, stables, and farms. Contact with animals requires patience, good physical condition, and an understanding of animal behavior. The work is often done in close collaboration with farmers, veterinarians, and other animal caretakers.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for hoof trimmers have developed steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, increasing to 28 400 SEK in 2023. This level has remained unchanged in 2024. The increase from 2022 to 2023 amounts to approximately 4.4%, which can be linked to increased demand for specialized skills in animal health and preventive care. Since this increase, salaries have stabilized, indicating that the market has reached a balance between supply and demand. Factors such as regional differences, education level, and work experience also influence the profession, but the overall trend shows stable salary levels for hoof trimmers.

Hoof trimmer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, highest 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn an average of 27 800 SEK, men 29,700 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: No clear regional data available, but variations may occur depending on employer and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a hoof trimmer, a high school education with a focus on agriculture or animal care is usually required, often supplemented with specialized courses in hoof trimming. Practical experience is highly valuable, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed internships or trainee periods in the field. Some also choose to pursue further training through certification courses or additional education to increase employability and specialized knowledge.

• High school education: Natural resources program, focus on animals or agriculture (3 years)
• Specialized hoof trimming courses: Common as a supplement after high school
• Internship: Strongly recommended for gaining experience and networks
• Certifications: Available through industry organizations and further training
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and good physical condition are important

Common benefits and compensations

Hoof trimmers are often offered work clothing, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training as part of their employment. In some cases, per diems, travel allowances between farms, and bonuses for special efforts may also be provided. Access to modern tools and safety equipment is common, especially with larger employers.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of hoof trimmer is considered relatively low, mainly because few people possess the specific skills and training required. At the same time, there are recruitment difficulties, largely because many work part-time. Challenges in the profession can include physically demanding work, varying work environments, and sometimes tight schedules depending on the season. Managing animals safely and professionally requires knowledge, patience, and good physical condition. Despite this, demand for hoof trimmers remains stable, and employment opportunities are expected to be good in the long term.

Tips for those who want to become a hoof trimmer

To succeed as a hoof trimmer, it is good to combine a genuine interest in animals with practical skills and patience. Being meticulous during inspections and treatments reduces the risk of injuries to both animals and humans, while good physical condition facilitates daily work. Flexibility and adaptability are necessary as the work environment often shifts between different farms and situations. Engagement in further education and networking within the industry can provide advantages when seeking new job opportunities. Showing respect for animals and working methodically is appreciated by both employers and animal owners. Good teamwork skills are important since the work is often done in teams with other animal caretakers and veterinarians. Finally, being self-reliant and proactive is an advantage, as many tasks require independent decisions.

Key facts about Hoof Trimmers

• Education level: High school (natural resources/animal care), supplemented with hoof trimming courses
• Work environment: Physical work, often outdoors on farms and in stables
• Type of employment: Full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions are common
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Hoof health, animal handling, and preventive care

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a hoof trimmer can advance to more qualified roles, such as supervisor of animal health teams or trainer within the agricultural sector. Some choose to further their education in animal health or veterinary medicine to broaden their competence. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the group "breeders and caretakers of farm animals," job opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties occur partly because many work part-time, but those with the right education and experience have good chances of employment. In total, there were 360 job openings in the group at the latest measurement, indicating good access to employment opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Hoof Trimmers

• What does a Hoof Trimmer earn?
  - A hoof trimmer has an average salary of 28 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How do you become a hoof trimmer?
  - The most common is to attend the natural resources program at high school with a focus on animals or agriculture, followed by specialized courses in hoof trimming.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 27 800 SEK, while men earn 29,700 SEK per month.
• In what work environments does a hoof trimmer work?
  - Mainly outdoors on farms and in stables, often in physical environments close to animals.
• What are the future prospects for hoof trimmers?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is required to succeed in the profession?
  - Good physical condition, interest in animals, and practical experience are important factors.
• What are the career paths?
  - After a few years, hoof trimmers can further qualify as supervisors, trainers, or deepen their knowledge within animal health.