Research project Innovative tools to support preventive and curative claw care in dairy cattle

General introduction

In the VLAIO LA project CLAWCARE, AI has been used to automatically detect cows with incipient leg and hoof problems in the herd so that they can be treated more quickly, either curatively or preventively. A self-learning image processing algorithm detects and identifies incipient hoof injuries based on thermal images and AI. The project started from the observation that dairy farmers still too often underestimate claw problems and lameness status on their farms. By the end of the project, the researchers noticed a marked increase in attention to claw care and its importance.

Research approach

The approach broke down into four parts: 1. Developing an image processing algorithm for detection and classification of claws (lesions). 2. A thorough evaluation and adjustment of preventive claw care to achieve ideal pressure distribution in the claw. This evaluation was supported by innovative high-tech techniques such as an RSscan pressure mat and a 3D scanner. 3. Objective testing of claw bathing agents, with a strong focus on Treponema and Mortellaro. 4. A strategy to pool and disseminate knowledge, including through the cow sensor knowledge center (view their website under /claw health) and through the development of an innovative learning tool for dairy farmers.

Relevance/Valorization

The final combination of innovative research and numerous trainings, demos, workshops and a webinar for dairy farmers and industry have generated positive change. The knowledge developed will continue to be made available through at least 5 main sources: the claw care program of the outdoor practice of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, the knowledge center Cow Sensor managed by the Hooibeekhoeve, the innovation learning tool of HoGent, the AgrifoodTEF (Test and experimentation facility) of the ILVO, and the ad hoc established Belgian claw care association.