Hoof Clips Newsletter
Hello and welcome to the Hoof Clips Newsletter – read by 5,000 Hoof Care professionals around the world. Join the ~1,200 hoof care pros if you’re not already signed up.
As promised in our last Hoof Clips newsletter, today, we are going to take a deeper dive into reviewing and updating prevention protocols to tackle lameness effectively. I hope you found our previous discussions helpful—in particular, the insights shared by Linda, a dedicated farmer who has been facing challenges with lameness in her herd.
(In case you missed it, my last newsletter ‘Where should I start addressing lameness in my herd?’ is still available to read)
Step 1: Inspection and Treatment of Lame Cows
The protocol that is proving to be effective on all farms begins with an inspection and treatment of any lame cows. It is crucial to set up a treatment and inspection area that includes a proper chute to hold the cow safely while trimming and treating hooves. Holding the hoof securely enables a thorough inspection and correct diagnosis of hoof diseases, which is the first step toward treatment and prevention.
Our Starter Tool Kit will provide you with all the tools you need. It includes antibiotic-free treatment for 35-50 DD lesions with Hoof-fit Gel, an overall skincare spray with Repiderma, rolls of wraps, and even two hoof knives—buy your own at reduced farmer’s rates while quantities last!
Step 2: Implementing a Weekly Footbath Protocol
After the initial treatment, implementing a once-per-week footbath protocol is the next essential step. However, it is important to note that not every footbath product is the same. Products like formalin and copper sulfate, although commonly used, are too harsh for the hooves and create pockets of chronic Digital Dermatitis (DD).
Instead, opting for gentler yet proven effective footbath solutions will reduce the chances of causing further damage while maintaining hoof health. Monitoring the cows after the footbath sessions to track improvements is critical to evaluating the protocol’s success. Our complete Hoof Sol Bath and Hoof Sol Spray products can be purchased through our authorized dealers. Check our website for local retailers.
By making these changes, Linda and many other farmers have seen significant improvements in their herd’s hoof health, effectively reducing the number of lame cows.
When chronic DD is present, and after the initial treatments in step 1 are completed, it is best to run a Hoof Sol Bath protocol twice weekly for the first eight weeks.
Interested in Personalized Advice?
This is a limited-time offer available on a first-come-first-serve basis. If you’re interested in discussing farm prevention protocols one-on-one, I am offering a free 30-minute virtual session*.
Please fill in my calendar link to schedule your session. I am here to address any questions and to help tailor a protocol that suits your farm’s specific needs. (*Available only for Canadian and US farmers.)
Thank you for your dedication to improving hoof health in your herds! Let’s continue working together to tackle lameness head-on.
Happy trimmings,
Koos
