ISSUE FOCUS 36 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE June 2024 correct size (2 -3 dunks), regularly replenished with fresh solution, and that cows have adequate contact time with the solution for optimal efficacy. Another good recommendation is to do a soap bath for a few days per week prior to running your treatment, to improve Hygiene scores. • Early Detection and Treatment: Regular hoof inspection and cleaning by trained personnel is vital for early detection of digital dermatitis lesions. Prompt identification enables timely intervention and treatment, preventing the condition from worsening. Treatment options may include topical antimicrobials, foot wraps, or bandages. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. • Environmental Modifications: Creating a comfortable and conducive environment for cows is crucial in preventing digital dermatitis. Providing adequate shade, proper ventilation, and cooling, can help alleviate heat stress. Additionally, maintaining clean and dry walking surfaces can reduce the risk of infection and minimize the spread of bacteria associated with digital dermatitis. • Monitoring and Record-Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of individual cows' health and treatment history can provide valuable insights into the prevalence and severity of digital dermatitis within the herd. Regular monitoring of hoof health, lesion occurrence, and treatment outcomes enable producers to identify trends, assess the effectiveness of management strategies, and make informed decisions for disease prevention and control. • Diet adjustments can help cows maintain a consistent rumen environment and overcome lameness challenges Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining cow health and immune function. A well-balanced and properly formulated diet can support rumen health and optimize the cow's ability to combat lameness challenges, including digital dermatitis. Ensuring an adequate supply of high-quality forage, balanced mineral supplementation, and maintaining optimal rumen pH through careful ration formulation can positively impact hoof health. Incorporating proper feed additives such as a postbiotic product can help stabilize the rumen, enhance microbiome populations, support gut integrity, and maintain intake and digestion – providing more available energy to the animal. Ultimately, this can result in greater profitability on the farm. Consultation with a professional nutritionist can aid in adjusting the diet to ensure adequate rumen function, which contributes to overall hoof health and resilience against diseases. In conclusion, digital dermatitis presents a significant challenge for the dairy industry, affecting the well-being and lifetime productivity of cows. By implementing effective management strategies, such as maintaining optimal hygiene, following proper footbath protocols, early detection and treatment, as well as adjusting the diet to support rumen health, dairy producers can minimize the occurrence and severity of digital dermatitis. Through proactive measures and a comprehensive approach, the impact of digital dermatitis on cow health and performance can be effectively managed, leading to improved animal welfare and enhanced productivity in the dairy sector. About Jeff Wheeler As National Accounts Manager, Ruminant Field Technical Specialist, Jeff Wheeler is responsible for providing sales and technical leadership for Diamond V’s business in North America. Wheeler attended the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens, graduating with a B.S. in Dairy Science. He then continued his education at UGA and received his M.S. in Ruminant Nutrition. He brings over 20 years of dairy industry expertise to his position at Diamond V.
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