New developments in digital dermatitis control

Abstract

Recent work has provided a greater understanding of the etiopathogenesis of digital dermatitis (DD) infection within cattle populations. With enhanced lesion scoring and an understanding of the transitioning between lesion stages, coupled with improved data-gathering systems, we now understand the significance of the chronic stages of the disease in herd-infection dynamics. Herd control of DD must begin during the heifer-rearing period. Breeding resistant animals and use of in-feed organic trace mineral supplements are coupled with active surveillance for early acute stages of the disease. Combined with strategic foot bathing and hoof-trimming, when fully implemented on a farm, these strategies can reduce the incidence of the disease and provide a sustainable solution to this troublesome problem.