Ep 19. Hoof Cleaner

In Dirty Jobs season 2 episode 19, titled "Hoof Cleaner," host Mike Rowe ventures to a cattle ranch in Texas to assist a professional hoof cleaner. Rowe starts off by learning the basics of hoof cleaning, which involves trimming and filing the hooves of cows and other cattle to keep them healthy and prevent any infections or diseases. The hoof cleaner explains that cows' hooves grow constantly, so they need regular maintenance to avoid any discomfort or pain.

Rowe then gets hands-on experience as he helps the hoof cleaner with his daily duties. The task proves to be physically demanding as Rowe has to wrangle the cows and hold them still while the hoof cleaner works his magic. The duo works in a muddy, dirty environment, and Rowe has to be careful not to get kicked by the animals.

As the day goes on, Mike and his host discuss how much the job of a hoof cleaner has changed over the years. In the past, most ranchers used to do hoof cleaning themselves, but now it is mostly done by professionals. The hoof cleaner has also adopted new technologies to make his job easier and more efficient.

The episode also shows the importance of the job of a hoof cleaner. If cows' hooves are not cared for properly, they could develop a condition called lameness, which can lead to decreased milk production, weight loss, and even death. Therefore, the job of a hoof cleaner plays a crucial role in the well-being of the animals and the success of the ranch.

Throughout the episode, Rowe's sense of humor and quick wit make the otherwise dirty and tough job more enjoyable to watch. He also takes the time to learn about the ranch's history and culture, showing viewers more about the unique lifestyle of cattle ranchers in Texas.

Overall, "Hoof Cleaner" is an informative and entertaining episode that offers a glimpse into the often-overlooked job of a hoof cleaner and highlights the essential role it plays in the cattle industry.