Lameness
Lameness remains a pervasive challenge within New Zealand's dairy farming sector, significantly impacting the health and productivity of cattle.
We specialize in providing tailored lameness management solutions designed to address the unique needs of each farm. Our objective is to optimize the welfare and performance of your herd.
We utilize hoof blocks and utilize non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) to effectively alleviate pain in the affected claw, achieving optimal cure rates.
For those looking to equip their operation, consider starting with essential tools such as:
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Hoof knives (both left and right-handed)
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Hoof testers to pinpoint problem areas
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Hoof trimmers for claw balancing and correct length trimming
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A selection of hoof blocks (Cow slips, high-heels or walkease)
Footbaths filled with copper-sulfate or zinc-sulfate can aid in preventing foot-rot for high-risk farms. It is recommended to change the solution after each day of usage. A footbath must be at least 150mm deep to ensure complete coverage of the claw (up to the dew claws). For most herds using a footbath twice weekly is sufficient, however farms with higher incidences may need to use it more frequently. Copper-sulfate needs to be made into a 5% solution and zinc-sulfate needs to be made into a 10% solution.
Supplements like biotin or zinc can also be incorporated into feeds to strengthen hooves and reduce lameness.
To effectively minimize lameness on your farm, we invite you to consult with one of our experienced veterinarians.