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Hello, fellow bovine enthusiasts! 🐄✨
Here at Diamond Hoof Care, we are committed to your livestock’s health and well-being, especially when it comes to their hoof health. Our team member Jasenko recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Koos Vis, the president of Diamond Hoof Care, to discuss our company’s journey and the changes in our agriculture industry. From the small beginnings as a hoof trimmer in 1994 to the coast-to-coast Animal Health company we are today, there’s been a lot of change—and learning.
Reflecting on changes in the industry is essential for improving how you care for your cattle, keeping them productive, and ensuring their hooves stay healthy. With this in mind, we’re excited to share our conversation, highlighting the changes in hoof care practices over the years and the message to future hoof trimmers.
Now, let’s dive into our interview!
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How was the dairy hoof care industry different in 1994 compared to now?
When our company started in October 1994, the approach to hoof trimming was quite different. At that time, hoof trimming was mainly done for cows with long toes. Many farmers managed this way because cows appeared under less stress overall. Perhaps it was also due to lower milk production, more straw bedding, and a generally more relaxed attitude.
Today, things have changed a lot. We now deal with twice the production levels, generally more exposure to concrete floors, the introduction of robotic milkers, and, to sum it up, a significant investment in facilities and quotas needs to be made a profit. These changes put more pressure on the farmer and their cows. Hoof trimming services are required more often to keep cows mobile and healthy.
What did you do before starting with hoof trimming?
I grew up in The Netherlands and started milking cows when I was 12 years old. Although my family didn’t have a farm, I’m told I got my interest in farming from my grandfather. At 16, I took a significant step toward a career in dairy farming by enrolling in a three-year agriculture college focused on dairy. It was during those years that I was first introduced to hoof trimming. However, I never imagined I would become a professional hoof trimmer—my initial goal was to be a herd manager or maybe own my own farm.
After graduating college at 18, I embarked on a new adventure. Just four days later, I flew to Canada for what was supposed to be a 16-month exchange program. During that time, I decided to immigrate permanently, a process I completed in January 1989.
In my early years in Canada, I gained valuable experience. I spent a year working on a feedlot in Alberta and nine years as a herdsman on a dairy farm with 100 cows. While on the dairy farm, I started my hoof trimming training and trimming hooves part-time.
Can you share how you went from trimming hooves to developing hoof care solutions?
I studied commercial economics courses during college, which perhaps means that building a business was in my genes.
In 2006, we came in contact with Intracare in the Netherlands and are grateful to their team for being on my side all these years—thank you, team Intracare! I still did part-time hoof trimming in the early years, but that was not sustainable in the long run. That being said, I still try to grab a cow here and there when the opportunity arises. It seems to me that being a trimmer is addicting.
Diamond Hoof Care operates from Diamond City as its head office and St. Hyacinthe as its central warehouse. These locations currently serve the Canadian and USA ag industries.
Our virtual team is a great asset to our company, and we appreciate their input and dedication.
How do you navigate working with people you haven’t met in person?
Our company has embraced the modern technology, I guess. Building a brand and a national business certainly poses unique challenges and opportunities, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But like running any business or farm, our work must be blessed. Yes, we have eight dedicated team members who are spread out all over the globe. Different time zones might sound tricky, but we’ve made it work with online dashboards! We meet our team in virtual meetings during our planning sessions, ensuring we’re all on the same page (even if it’s across multiple continents).
But we don’t stop at formalities. For example, every six weeks, we have what we call a ‘Coffee Chat,’ where team members get a one-on-one time slot with me to share or talk about anything under the sun. These get-togethers aren’t just another meeting on their calendar—it’s a cherished time for team building and has been a great success. At Diamond Hoof Care, we believe in team time outside of our regular tasks.
One other item I would like to share. In May, my wife Elaine and I had the pleasure of visiting two of our team members at their location, and we had a great time. Our goal is to eventually visit every member. There’s nothing like a face-to-face meeting where you can shake hands instead of being virtual.
How do you see the future of hoof health management?
Ah, the future of hoof health management—it’s as exciting as it is essential! Technology is rapidly changing the landscape of our industry, bringing innovations that were once beyond imagination into our barns.
First, let’s talk about automation. More and more dairy farms are incorporating hoof care technology on milking robots and automated systems into their parlours. These technologies make monitoring the cows around the clock easier, ensuring that no hoof goes unchecked. Imagine having a robotic assistant that never misses a thing—it’s like having extra eyes on the herd, focused solely on detecting the early signs of lameness.
AI is revolutionizing our approach to hoof health by providing data-driven insights and protocols. Think of it as your farm’s new brainy friend who can analyze data faster than any human could and give you actionable advice on the spot. These ‘eyes’ on the hooves not only detect the lameness status but also offer tailored recommendations for treatment and prevention.
Another exciting development is the increased collaboration between all professions in the industry—veterinarians, hoof trimmers, dealers, and farmers. Sharing data and insights is going to become more streamlined and efficient, breaking down silos and fostering a united approach to hoof health. When everyone’s on the same page, we can develop more effective treatment protocols and preventive strategies, leading to healthier herds.
What message do you have for future hoof trimmers?
Seeing that young people want to pursue the hoof trimming career is interesting and exciting. If you’re considering stepping into the world of professional hoof trimming – you’re in for a rewarding ride. This profession is much more than just keeping hooves in check; it’s an artistry that directly affects the health and happiness of our livestock—and, in turn, the well-being and success of the entire farm.
I bought a T-shirt with that phrase many years ago: “Hoof trimming is a form of art.”, which still holds true. Like a skilled artist shapes clay or paints on a canvas, a hoof trimmer shapes and maintains the hoof to perfection. You’ll find that each cow hoof and herd is unique, much like a blank canvas waiting for your expertise.
This job is beautiful and incredibly rewarding. Imagine helping a cow in discomfort, watching her walk comfortably again, and knowing you’ve made a direct, positive impact. Your work doesn’t just affect the animal; it impacts the entire farm’s productivity and overall health. A happy cow is productive, and as we always say, happy cows make for happy farmers!
Now, it’s not always a path of roses. I would like to share a moment from my early trimming days. During my first week of trimming, I had some long-toed dry cows to do. It wasn’t a smooth ride; one cow had a radial nerve problem. I was so discouraged that I called Elaine and said, “If it has to go this way, I will drive my chute in the lagoon.” Yes, this job comes with challenges. We work with live animals, but trust me, the rewarding moments far outweigh the tough times.
What would you share with the farmers, dealers, trimmers, and vets you work with?
First and foremost, let me extend a heartfelt thank-you to all the farmers who have placed their trust in me and Diamond Hoof Care over the years. This journey of trimming and caring for herds wouldn’t be possible without your confidence and support. Your dedication to the well-being of your animals is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to be part of your farm’s hoof health team.
Speaking of teams, I must give a shout-out to my past hoof trimming partner, Henri van Herk. Henri, we trimmed together for 11 incredible years—years filled with learning, laughter, and many hoof clips. I am particularly grateful for that pivotal moment when you brought the first jar of Hoof-fit Gel to Canada. That’s how this incredible journey began, and for that, I owe you a big “thank you!”
To our dealers and the extensive professional network that supports us—you have our deepest gratitude. Your trust in our company, team, and products is the backbone of our success. Your valuable feedback and unwavering support have shaped Diamond Hoof Care into what it is today. Together, we’ve built a community focusing on top-notch hoof health and happy, healthy cows.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to thank the Lord, Who has granted us health and strength and blessed the labour of our hands. Our journey is a testament to the blessings we receive, making our work not just a job but a privilege to serve the industry.
