High Heels for Holsteins

or... The Thrill of Victory Over The Agony of De Feet

Abstract

The trend towards larger dairy herds which are confined on concrete surfaces for most of the cow's lactation has insured that bovine lameness treatment continues to be a significant part of most veterinarians' routine. A common practice to alleviate foot pain and encourage rapid recovery has been the application of various devices to the healthy claw, in an attempt to prevent the cow from bearing weight on the diseased claw until healing is complete. Published methods include attachment of a wooden block with acrylic adhesive,¹ and building up the claw with a layer of plaster cast material.² A plastic "elevator" slipper which is attached to the foot with nylon cord and tape which has a build up under the medial or lateral claw has been marketed.³