This is the moment a female elephant named Sophie enjoys a fancy pampering pedicure at a zoo in the USA.

More than 5,000 fans were thrilled by a video of the session after the Little Rock Zoo, in Arkansas State, USA, posted it on their Facebook page on17th January.

The video shows Sophie with one of her giant feet delicately raised while her toe nails are filed using a heavy rasp.

Then she waits patiently for the creases in her foot to be picked clean of mud and straw.

The treatment was carried out as part of the zoo’s Hoof Care Week, which aims to raise awareness on the significance of hoof care.

The initiative first took place in 2003, when the “American Farriers Journal” organised its first International Hoof Care Summit.

Its goal was to reiterate the importance of hoof care and to educate the public on ways to manage their animals’ hooves, following the increase in dangers related to animals having untended hooves.

Zoo officials revealed that the initiative takes place in the third week of each year’s first month, which this time fell between Tuesday, 17th January and Friday, 20th January.

Little Rock Zoo said: “Weighing between 2,000 and 12,000 pounds, elephants and rhinos need strong and healthy hooves.

“Sophie and the girls get theirs checked often to look for injuries or buildup that might hinder their movement.

“Come by today from 1-2pm to learn more.”

They added: “Hoofed animals such as horses, cattle, and pigs, require proper care for their hooves.

“Negligence in their hooves’ care can result in infections, lame, and sore feet.

“Their hooves need special maintenance and attention.”