The welfare of a lame cow is affected in at least three ways: 1) it interferes with natural behaviors such as walking, lying down and interacting with herdmates; 2) it impairs normal function by reducing milk production and reproductive efficiency; and 3) the pain impacts the cow’s affective states of physical and mental well-being. What can we do to manage lameness more effectively and improve the welfare of cows that develop lameness?

Severely lame cows are easily distinguishable in the herd, even to the untrained eye. The key is to work with the farm team in identifying and addressing lameness early. This may be before the lesion is visible until you pick the foot up in the hoof-trimming chute.

Imagine being at the helm of a bustling airport, managing the incessant comings and goings of countless flights each day.