Twelve Key Areas Of Focus To Improve Cow Mobility
(Compiled by Ger Cusack MVB MRCVS)
1.
Mobility Scoring
Identify lame cows that require treatment/trimming early. Early treatment is key to recovery.
2.
Recording Lameness
Record each case of lameness and the cause e.g. (Mortellaro, white line disease). Your hoof trimmer or vet can help with this.
3.
Risk Assessment
Take a strategic look at your farm to identify areas for improvement to reduce the incidence of lameness.
4.
Footbathing
Utilise a comprehensive footbathing protocol that is specific to the issues present on farm.
5.
Stress-Free Handling
Reduce pressures during movement and allow animals to move at their own pace (no sticks, shouting, quads, etc.)
6.
Space
Ensure your animals have sufficient space in collecting yards, roads and housing.
7.
Environment
Improve the quality of surfaces on roadways and yards. Give cows a clean, dry environment for walking, both indoor and outdoor.
8.
Cubicles
Reduce standing times for animals by ensuring sufficient cubicles (1:1 cubicle per cow). Correct cubicle size and comfort, and minimising holding time in collecting yard.
9.
Flow
Identify problems with cow flow (e.g. sharp turns, overcrowding, narrow passages, etc.) Try to rectify these if possible. Get advice from your vet/hoof trimmer.
10.
Lameness Control Plan
Create a plan in conjunction with your vet/hoof trimmer outlining guidelines for the monitoring, treating and prevention of lameness in your herd.
11.
Introduction of Heifers
Introduce heifers to the herd well before calving. This will reduce fighting with dominant cows and reduce stress on heifer hooves.
12.
Extra Care
Give extra care to the freshly calving cow. She is very vulnerable to developing lameness in the immediate post-calving period. Keep calved cows near for a minimum of 48 hours and avoid walking long distances.