A major new initiative to tackle lameness in Irish dairy herds - Hoof Health Check - has been launched by Animal Health Ireland (AHI).

The programme work with 10 farmers spread across the country over the course of the next three years to show the benefits of taking a proactive approach to lameness and hoof health care.

The Sound Cow Innovation Programme (SCIP) is designed to improve cow welfare, reduce economic losses and enhance sustainability across the dairy sector.

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The SCIP project will begin with the 10 pilot dairy farms across the country, each receiving tailored veterinary, hoof trimmer and advisory support.

Commenting on the launch of the programme, AHI programme manager Dr Michelle McGrath said lameness has been seen as an operational hazard or as inevitable on many Irish dairy farms, which is simply not the case.

“Lameness is a serious concern and should be treated as such. It impacts cow health, herd performance and, ultimately, profitability on farms.

“There is often not one single reason for lameness in herds and that is why we have developed this exciting new initiative with the support of Teagasc and UCD.

“With better hoof care, we can protect welfare, improve farm output and boost profitability. Ireland is well positioned to be a global leader in this space,” she added.

Cost

Lameness is estimated to cost Irish dairy farmers up to €8,750 per 100 cows each year in high-prevalence herds.

At a national lameness prevalence of 10%, this equates to a national loss of approximately €145m annually. It is also a welfare issue, causing pain, reducing fertility and lowering milk production.

This project is facilitated by AHI, with collaboration from Teagasc and University College Dublin (UCD). Various training and open days will take place over the course of the programme.

As part of the project, farmers will gain access to practical tools and expert advice to prevent and manage lameness on their farms.

By capturing data, sharing best practices and empowering farmers to make the right decisions, the Hoof Health Check programme will deliver lasting improvements to cow health and farm performance. It can also help set a new global benchmark in responsible dairy farming.

Senior research officer with Teagasc Dr Muireann Conneely said lameness is one of the most significant welfare challenges facing Irish dairy cows, yet it is also one of the most preventable.

Dr Eoin Ryan from UCD added that the prevalence and cost of lameness in Irish dairy, as well as beef and suckler, herds is underestimated significantly.