mounting the deer's hooves (feet)?
 

Not long ago I got my first deer (which was a doe) and I would like to save part of it, perhaps as a memory.

Being that it's only a doe, I don't really want to spend $300-$500 for a shoulder mount.

My senile grandfather suggested having the butcher cut off the hooves and mounting them on to a plaque, such as to make a gun rack or arrow holder. He said all you have to do it dip the ends of them in salt, and they'll be fine. Keep in mind this is the same senile grandfather that cut off a squirrel tail and dipped it in salt, which made it look quite disgusting.

Has anyone heard of doing this?

RE: mounting the deer's hooves (feet)?
 

Jack,
Don't do it. You need to preserve the skin. If you don't it'll rot. You also need to remove the bone, there is marrow inside. If you are serious about preserving them, call a taxidermist in your area and pay for their experience. Deer feet are a pain that I don't like to deal with. I am a taxidermist. If you want to do it yourself call Van Dykes Taxidermy Supply @ 800-843-3320 and order kit BM-01508774 $19.99 + shipping. I still recommend the taxidermist, if you order the kit you'll see why. Remember "you get what you pay for"

RE: mounting the deer's hooves (feet)?
 

Thanks for the reply, I thought it was a pretty crazy idea.:D