Hey first year with deer. I Have a 2yr old buck with his front hooves really long. I read a old post were they can be trimmed was wondering what you use and how short you trim them? Also is it ok to dart a buck during velvet? thanks
Joined May 2011
296 Posts | 0+
Linesville, PA
I use goat hoof trimmers from PBS Animal which you can access online. You can dart in velvet but I wouldn't unless you had to for something more important than trimming hooves unless they are really bad. You'll want to avoid any stress during the antler growing season.
John's advise is sound. I will throw out another scenario for you to consider.
If this bucks feet are bad enough that he does not want to get up and feed, water etc. that may be effecting his antler development more than the "stress" of sedation and a trim. This procedure can be performed in under five minutes. With the proper dosage of MK or BAM the animal will be back on his feet in no time. Pictures are always the best way for us to ***** things. I say if they are bad, bad is the key word, knock him down. It suck that you have to do it now but a health deer is better than one that can not get around. Best of luck.
If this bucks feet are bad enough that he does not want to get up and feed, water etc. that may be effecting his antler development more than the "stress" of sedation and a trim. This procedure can be performed in under five minutes. With the proper dosage of MK or BAM the animal will be back on his feet in no time. Pictures are always the best way for us to ***** things. I say if they are bad, bad is the key word, knock him down. It suck that you have to do it now but a health deer is better than one that can not get around. Best of luck.
Thanks He can get around fine just noticed they look like there 4" long were his rear are short. Can this be a side affect from feeding shock effect antler enhancer?