Longterm Studies (1996-2006) of Measures Undertaken by Somerset (UK) Dairy Farmers to Control Digital Disease

A longterm study 1996-2006 in 55 dairy herds in Somerset (UK) showed that 23 herds had been sold or dispersed in this period. Replies in 2006 from 31 active dairy farms (30 loose housed in cubicles, one in straw yard system) showed a marked increase in yield since 1997 (6580L – 7848L mean annual yield). Herd size had also expanded in the last 5 years (mean 140 to 181 cows). The proportion of the dairy herd that was lame each year dropped slightly from 29% (1998) to 25% (2005), but ranged from 7% to 58% in 2005-6. Major lameness problems remained sole ulcer and digital dermatitis. Changes were evident in foot care procedures, with more farmers engaging a regular contract trimmer and obtaining joint advice from this individual as well as the farm veterinarian. Footbath usage increased, often with a wide variety of products rotated following veterinary advice. Successful alterations to husbandry, resulting in a lower incidence of lameness, included changes to a spring calving pattern, the installation of new cubicles with improved cubicle divisions, better rubber cubicle mats or deep sand beds, new farm tracks to reduce ...