New Help In The Fight Against Digital Dermatitis

It is estimated that 70% of dairy herds suffer with digital dermatitis (DD). This is a large and growing problem and, if not treated, it can persist for months, causing pain and lameness to infected cows. As well as worrying animal welfare concerns, numerous studies have shown that the disease can have a direct impact on milk production and reproduction with financial implications for the dairy farmer. Management and treatment of individual animals have been found to be the most effective way to fight DD and traditional treatments have comprised thoroughly washing the infected hoof, applying an antibiotic/drying agent such as salicylic acid powder and then applying a dressing that must typically remain in place for three days. This method comes with its own problems, including that it can be hard to dose correctly the salicyclic acid powder and it can be risky to the user’s health when mixing, and that there can be complications with ensuring that the dressing is correctly applied at the right pressure and that it stays in place. To help treat these problems, Kruuse has introduced two products, the first of which is the Bovivet complete Hoof Bandage that is ready to apply. It is made from a water-repelling material that keeps out unwanted liquids. Its shape and elasticity are designed to keep the bandage in place. Inside the bandage is a treatment pad that makes for easy dosing and the outer stocking design allows for checking on progress of the treatment and for re-application if necessary. It is available in two sizes, large which fits most cattle breeds, and small for calves and small breeds. The second new product to be used in conjunction with the Bovivet Hoof Bandage is Kruuse Hoof Gel 38%, containing 38% salicyclic acid, which has advantages over using the powder version. Firstly dosing is easy and more accurate, thereby making it more economical per treatment and secondly, it reduces potential health risks to the user from inhalation of the powder when mixing. To demonstrate the ease of use and versatility of these two new products, an instructional video is available for viewing via youtube at http://www.youtube.com/user/KRUUSEcom.

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