A new programme to tackle lameness in dairy cows has been launched by Animal Health Ireland (AHI).

The sound cow innovation programme (SCIP) aims to improve the management of lameness on Irish dairy farms by providing a science-based approach and practical support for farmers to tackle lameness issues.

The programme is an initiative with Teagasc, University College Dublin, Animal Health Ireland, the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation and hoof care professionals.

It uses an online or mobile tool to allow farmers to record data on cow mobility scoring, to identify and prevent lameness issues early.

Management plans

It also involves lameness management plans tailored to a specific herd and farm system, with support from trained vets and hoof care professionals. The programme also provides farmer training and advisory support, to assist farmers in recognising and tackling lameness.

Lameness is a common issue on Irish dairy farms. It affects animal welfare and reduces profitability on the farm.

Common lameness conditions include white line disease, sole bruises and ulcers, digital dermatitis and overgrown claws.

There are a range of factors that contribute to lameness issues including environmental, nutrition, cow management and characteristics of the individual animal.

Farmers can reduce economic losses from lameness and reduce antibiotic usage on their farms if they enrol in SCIP, AHI said.

The longer-term aim is to set national hoof care and lameness standards. The programme will be officially launched at the Moorepark open day on Wednesday 2 July.