Many Wisconsinites want to soak up the sun and the heat before enduring another long winter. But for cows, the summer heat can bring negative implications, from head to hoof.
Karl Burgi is a global leader in hoof health. He’s a hoof health consultant and hoof trimmer with Sure Step Consulting and Save Cows Network. He says dairy farmers need to be mindful of their cows’ hoofs, especially this time of year.
Summer heat means cattle will be uncomfortable, stressed, and have a weakened immune system. Stress can also lead to cows standing up more and experiencing inflammation in their feet. It takes roughly two months after a heat wave for cattle to see problems in their hooves as a result of inflammation. This includes lameness.
Keeping your cows cool and having them lay down is going to be the solution. You can also stay ahead of it by making sure the hooves are in the right condition/shape before heat waves.
Summer humidity and moisture can lead to foot rot — this is especially important for pasture operations to pay attention to. To prevent foot rot, keep cows from congregating and keep them in dry areas. The days following a rain event are the days when bacteria from manure start multiplying in puddles — this is how feet get infected.