WestVic Dairy News - October 2010 Edition
Lameness and Laneways (Field Day Info DVD Now Available)
By Janet Sloan, DPI Warrnambool.
With the wet conditions of late, many dairy farmers have been battling lameness issues like never before in their herds. Over 70 people came to listen and see experts in action at the recent Lameness and Laneways field day at Jancourt. One farmer observed about the day: “you had the experienced people that were relevant to my situation, and covered all topics in a very practical way”.
What was covered on the day?
Dr Jakob Malmo, renowned dairy cow expert from Maffra Veterinary Clinic, demonstrated how to safely restrain cows to treat lameness.
He emphasised the importance of recognising and treating lame cows early. Lameness is a serious issue that can affect milk production, fertility and general health. With the simple tools he demonstrated, cows can be examined and treated both quickly and safely.
Dr Malmo told the participants, “Remember that cows can scratch behind their ears with their back hoof, so when examining the front hoof, secure the hind hoof before you start! Speak to your local vet if you are unsure of the techniques you need to use.”
Caption: Dr Jakob Malmo - demonstrating how to restrain a cow safely for both the handler and the cow
Hugh Archibald, from Intelact Australia, spoke on how to identify lameness in cows early, explaining locomotion scoring and the different types of footrot that effect cows.
He stressed the need to diagnose lame cows as early as possible. If cows have a locomotion score 3 or above, examine their feet, actively look for issues and treat accordingly. There is no magic bullet or cure all as different types of lameness will need different interventions.
For example foot baths, if effectively managed, are useful in treating infectious lesions. However, they can aggravate some non infectious lesions or sores on the hoof.
Understanding the causes of lameness along with correct diagnosis of any problem with possible treatment options is essential. Always remember that rest is the one of the best cures for any lesion. Talk to your vet for advice about any of these aspects for your particular situation.
Caption: Hugh Archibald - discussing the importance of correct and early identification of lameness in the herd
Dr Ellen Jongman, from DPI Werribee spoke on animal behaviour and how we can minimise the amount of lameness in the herd by handling stock differently.
She explained that how stock are handled will greatly affect the amount of lameness in the herd. Cows when walking normally will walk with their heads down, walking where they place their front feet. The hind foot will be placed where the front foot has just been. This allows them to avoid dangerous objects that could cause injury. Rushing cows will cause them to lift their heads and shorten their stride, putting the cow at risk of standing on stones that could cause injury. Letting cows walk at their own pace is an easy way to prevent injury. Being gentle and moving slowly while in the dairy will reduce the wearing of hoof soles and therefore reduce the amount of lameness.
Mark Rantall, from the Corangamite Shire, spoke about laneway construction, explaining how to construct tracks that will last for the long-term, the importance of using good track materials and actively seeking information about local quarries to provide material when needed.
He identified that the most important aspects of track construction are drainage, drainage and more drainage! Drains need to be sited and maintained next to tracks to keep them in good working order. Cows should not be allowed to walk in drains as they will quickly destroy their ability to carry water away.
What you can do about it now
Now is the time to carefully assess tracks while the damage is still present and water may still be lying around. Drainage problems can be identified and fixed this summer. Hopefully that will mean a greater chance that they will stay high and dry and intact next winter!
Caption: Mark Rantall explaining methods of track construction.
DVD now available on this topic
A DVD was produced featuring all the action with the guest speakers at the field day. If you would like to see and hear what was covered, contact the Warrnambool DPI office on (03) 5561 9946 for a free information pack from the Lameness and Laneways Field Day to be sent out to you. The field day notes are also available at the DEC website: www.dairyextension.com.au.
