Telling tails

the results and if you’re using WelFarm they will enter them into the portal where you can see the benchmarks, which compare your results to other farms in the region and across New Zealand.

The first time a herd is scored they are taking a baseline, creating the benchmark for the farm itself, and every score after that can and assessment of what might have changed. If after a tail score you have any concerns about the results, your vet can help you put a plan in place to reduce any damage or injuries that may be occurring, whether they be from the infrastructure or any handling techniques. The type of abnormalities detected will provide clues as to what could be causing the problems. caused by mechanical damage in the milking shed or collecting yard, or inappropriate handling. But without scoring your herd and investigating the results, it is hard to determine what could be causing problems on your farm.

By capturing information and having it available for future reference, you are be compared to that base. Generally, scoring will take place annually at a consistent time, for a good comparison

Tail scoring can provide farmers another monitoring tool for maintaining optimum herd health and should be performed by a trained vet or technician.

While I was putting this info together, 60% of farms enrolled in WelFarm had had a tail score performed. And, consistent with research in this area, 20% of cows had some form of tail damage recorded. Of the abnormalities detected, 54% are due to deviations and 28% are due to shortenings, which will reduce over time as the older cows are culled from herds and younger cows no longer have their tails routinely shortened. There is limited information on what causes deviations in tails, but it has been suggested that it may be able to monitor trends and progress. And if you are ever questioned you will have the evidence to show that you are aware and are working with the right people to improve the situation.

Tail scoring is a valuable tool for dairy farmers to identify issues early, ensure animal welfare, and maintain productive herds. Tail damage is painful for cows and should be avoided at all costs.

The tail tells a story – what are the ones on your farm saying? n

Who am I?

Samantha Tennent is the general manager of WelFarm.