Animal Health Ireland (AHI) will hold two lameness events this September, supported by Norbrook and Provita.

The theme of the events are “healthy hooves to healthy herds” and aim to give farmers practical approaches to identifying, managing and preventing lameness.

Farmers will hear from industry experts so they can identify specific actions that can be implemented on their own farms.

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Lameness remains an important herd health, welfare and economic issue on Irish dairy farms.

In herds with a high prevalence of lameness, it is estimated to cost farmers up to €8,750 per 100 cows each year.

At a national lameness prevalence of 10%, this equates to an estimated loss of approximately €145 million annually to the Irish dairy sector.

The cost of individual cases can also be significant, with a case of white line disease estimated at €226, mortellaro (digital dermatitis) at €201, foot rot (foul) at €308 and a sole ulcer at €536 per cow.

These costs can arise through a combination of reduced milk production, treatment, reduced fertility and increased risk of culling, according to AHI.

Lameness is also an important welfare issue, causing pain and affecting a cow’s mobility and normal behaviour.

Early identification and appropriate management are key to reducing its impact on both cow welfare and farm profitability.

Events

The events will take place on:

  • 11am, 22 September – Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College, Drumcrow, Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan, H12 E392.
  • 11am, 24 September – Michael Walsh, Ballyking, Ballyroan, Co. Laois, R32 V803.

    • Refreshments will be available on the day.

    “Healthy feet are fundamental to cow health, welfare and performance and taking action early can make a significant difference to the impact lameness has on a herd,” AHI Hoof HealthCheck programme manager Michelle McGrath said.

    “Identifying a cow early and taking appropriate action can help protect her welfare and performance while also reducing the potential financial impact on the farm.

    “These events are about practical, achievable steps. We want farmers to come along, hear the latest information on good lameness management and leave with simple tips that they can apply on their own farms.

    “We are delighted to be bringing the Hoof HealthCheck programme directly to farmers and look forward to meeting them in Ballyhaise and Ballyroan.”

    For further information and event details, visit the Animal Health Ireland website.