Lifting kit launched to help with downer cows
© CowRecovery Animal and human welfare will both benefit from a cow lifting device launched in a partnership between a farmer, vet and engineer.
North Dorset dairy farmer James Yeatman devised the handling system – which trades as CowRecovery – in February 2022 to help the challenging job of moving downer animals in a welfare-friendly manner.
See also: How a Dorset dairy farmer cut antibiotics usage by 80%
Launched at Dairy-Tech earlier this month, CowRecovery is based on a modified telehandler bucket.
It was developed over a 10-month trial period overseen by Synergy Farm Health and vet Sam Gayton, and has been made possible with the help of engineering firm Albutt.
The trial tested CowRecovery on 15 large dairy units around the UK managing a total of 10,000 cows, and lifted more than 100 cows.
James, who milks 400 cows, said the system should make a difficult job a lot easier.
“Moving animals in a welfare-friendly way is often a challenge due to a lack of manpower, limited availability of appropriate equipment, and poor training of farm staff.
“Having spent over 30 years farming and dealing with the challenges of moving downer cows, I decided it was time to make a change.”
© CowRecovery
Return on investment
The CowRecovery system costs £4,995 including delivery in the UK. Sam said a return on investment should be easily managed, with the cost of an early-lactation fatality estimated at £3,499.
She added: “The cause of a ‘down’ cow – which is unable to stand – can be a difficult calving, milk fever, grass staggers, metritis, mastitis, a bone fracture or nerve paralysis.
“It’s important that cows are moved to a well-bedded yard, with food and water in easy reach, and are medically treated.
“They should also be helped to shift sides at least twice daily to release the pressure on their muscles and nerves.”
More information on CowRecovery is available at cowrecovery.com