Jim Edwards focuses on the top four mistakes that are key to achieving maximum value from footbaths on dairies:
Common mistake #1 – Water volume
Common mistake #2 – Treatment concentration
Common mistake #3 – Cow passes before refill
Common mistake #4 – Footbath frequency
Source: Progressive Dairyman, July 30, 2018. Link.
Each mistake impacts the effectiveness of your dairy’s footbath program, and multiple mistakes compound the problems. Management’s best understanding of a footbath protocol and a quality product can still produce poor hoof health. Each verbal transfer or translation of the footbath program is an opportunity for misunderstanding. Written protocols are a must.
INSIGHTS: Consider sharing this article with dairy customers in person or via a personal email. The reminders will be appreciated. Note Edwards comments about frequency and scheduling.
It is common to hear producers say they run treatments three times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. However, running the footbath on consecutive days provides a more effective bacterial kill than spanning treatments over time.