In April, Synergy’s Cattle Lameness Academy hosted a series of enlightening workshops across four regions as part of our ongoing commitment to tackling cattle lameness. The events, held in collaboration with AHDB and esteemed speakers James Wilson and George Oikonomou from Liverpool University, delved into groundbreaking genetics project while our own dedicated team of vets and vet techs focused on the crucial aspects of early detection and prompt, effective treatment of lameness in dairy cattle.
The workshops were a resounding success, providing invaluable insights into the latest developments in the field. James Wilson and George Oikonomou shed light on their genetic project and urged farmers to sign up to help by providing access to their foot trimming records to enable them to help improve bull proofs for Lameness. Anyone interested to help out please use the QR code to find out more details and sign up.
UK Hoof Health Registry-Sharing Data For Healthy Hooves
Our own team of vets and vet techs played a pivotal role in the workshops, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prompt effective treatment. Through interactive sessions and practical demonstrations, attendees gained skills and knowledge aimed at minimizing lameness occurrences and optimizing herd health.
In addition to the workshops, the Cattle Lameness Academy team has been actively engaged in delivering foot trimming courses out on farm. These hands-on training sessions empower farmers with the skills and confidence to address foot health issues effectively within their herds. We run these courses several times a year – and also can deliver bespoke courses for larger herds where multiple staff require training.
Looking ahead, we have more foot trimming courses scheduled for the remainder of the year. Spaces are still available for those eager to enhance their expertise in this critical area of cattle management. Our foot trimming courses are certified by Lantra, offering participants the opportunity to attain a recognized qualification in either one-day first aid or the comprehensive three-day intermediate course. Please contact the office for more information or check out our website.
Future projects the Cattle Lameness Academy will be involved with include a joint research study into corkscrew claws in dairy cattle, which is being undertaken by ourselves and the RVC. We would like to invite any interested dairy farmers to participate. The aim of the study is to try and establish the prevalence of corkscrew claws in dairy cattle and work out risk factors for their development. The study will involve a visit from an RVC vet (Sophie Mahendran), who will visit during milking to count the number of corkscrew claws present in your cows as they exit the parlour. She will also ask you a few questions about the cows management and take some housing measurements such as feed space. If you are interested in being involved, please get in touch.
Written By Dave Philips, Vet Tech
