Appleton Steel, Inc.

TRIMMER TUESDAY 👇

Meet Ian Mathers of BBH Hoofcare, trimming since 2012.

Ian’s story started long before BBH Hoofcare. After moving from Northern Ireland to Canada in 1997 to farm, he quickly developed a passion for working alongside the hoof trimmers caring for their cows.

Over the years, Ian had the opportunity to learn from some great trimmers, including David Swartz, John Peeters, Kioshi, and many others—and he’s never stopped learning.

“My greatest joy is seeing cows happy and healthy. If I can be a small percentage of that, then that makes me happy.”

Today, Ian approaches each farm a little differently, trimming according to the needs of the cattle and the operation. He still works on many tie-stall farms, trims show cattle, and is often called to farms specifically to help work through problem feet.

Ian takes pride in the details. He uses a multi-disc trimming system, finishes with a rasp for balance, and would rather take a little extra time on each animal if it means doing the job right.

His setup? A 2012 Appleton Ultra that he has customized over the years and works hard to maintain. Two of his favorite features are the smooth, precise front leg lifts and the shuttle system that allows him to accommodate different-sized cattle.

But for Ian, hoof trimming is about more than the chute or the tools.

It’s about caring for the cattle like they were his own, continuing to learn, and helping farmers keep their animals comfortable and sound.

The hardest part? The travel and time away from family. Ian recently became engaged to Lindsay, and together with her boys, Owen and Alex, they’ve built a family that brings him a lot of joy.

“I believe God sends us on paths, and we build faith and love along the way.”

Ian is still looking ahead, too. One of his goals is to develop a reusable hoof block that can be applied and removed without glue and customized to the needs of the animal.

And he wanted to leave us with this:

A thank you to Appleton Steel for continuing to build and improve the equipment he relies on—and especially to the dairy and beef farmers who make it possible for hoof trimmers to do a job they love.

Thanks for letting us share your story, Ian!

“Finish the Year Strong”
October starts the final quarter of the year.
What’s one thing you want to improve before the year is over—cow flow, efficiency, equipment, your route, or something else?

🚨 TRIMMERS — DON’T FORGET!

The Hoof Trimmers Dinner is TONIGHT! 🙌

Join us for a night of good food, great company, and time to connect with others in the industry.

📍 Location: Appleton Trimmers Lounge

We’re looking forward to seeing everyone tonight! 🍽️