Lameness in dairy cows will result in
- Lower milk yields
- Higher culling rates
- Reproduction problems
- Poor body condition
FRS hoof care introduced a nationwide service in Ireland in the early 1980’s and since then it has established itself as an outstanding management aid for thousands of dairy farmers.
Why is Hoof care so important?
- The principle of hoof care is weight transfer. Cows should carry equal weight on all eight claws.
- Most sores in the claws can be cured by paring and taking the weight off the affected area. Rubber or wooden blocks are sometimes used to aid recovery
- The hind outer claws carry more weight and as a result are more prone to lameness.
- Curative paring is the only effective treatment for the majority of lame cows.
- Preventative hoof care in the early Winter period before calving will help to prevent lameness problems in the spring.
FRS Hoof Care operators have the training and skill to provide a professional hoof care service. The training, regular refresher courses and certification of qualified operators is provided by Teagasc |
