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Moving promptly against lameness in cows deals to their pain and can reduce long term hoof damage, says Shoof International, which markets Walkease hoof blocks.
Early intervention reduces the duration and severity of lameness although its not always possible to eliminate it, Shoof says.
The blocks are for use when lameness is detected early. They are a new style claw prosthetic made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), a product more commonly used in the supports of running shoe soles.
Used with a fast drying cyanoacrylate adhesive, Walkease offers a fast and effective way to address lameness early.
It works by elevating the affected claw, allowing the animal to transfer weight to the healthy claw. This speeds recovery via increased mobility and function (a reduction in locomotion score).
Blocks compress down naturally over 10-14 days of wear so the healthy claw suffers no ill effects.
The blocks are claimed inexpensive, easy to fit and make for quicker recovery.
Lameness in dairy cows can have a significant effect on a businesses' bottom line, with vets suggesting that each case has a cost implication of $400-500, made up of increased labour, vet bills, drugs and of course lost production.
Fonterra says its Farm Insights Report sent out to farmers recently doesn’t benchmark lameness on shareholders’ farms.
This is the first article by Chris Balemi of Agvance, of a two-part series and covers cattle hoof make up, causes of lameness and what can be done to prevent lameness in cattle.
Lameness can cost farmers $500 - $1000 per case, yet farmers often underestimate its cost.
Lameness is estimated to cost Australian farmers at least A$250 for each cow that develops the problem and can greatly reduce cow comfort and longevity.
