Читать книгу Bovine Reproduction - Группа авторов - Страница 249

Diagnosis of lameness in the field is not ideal, and the practitioner must consider possible risks to themselves, the client or caretaker, and the animal. Having a proper facility to diagnose and provide treatment to lame individuals makes the opportunity much more appealing. Let us consider what would be the ideal setting for evaluation of bovine lameness.

The most desirable area to evaluate a bovine animal in motion is on a hard‐surfaced alley, free of rocks or other irregular debris, with access on either end to stimulate the animal to travel back and forth (Figure 16.3). Additionally, an alley or chute leading to a tilt table or a tilt chute allows the practitioner to get a closer look at all limbs, hooves, and back while preparing to place the animal in lateral recumbency (Figure 16.4).

Figure 16.3 Nice alleyway for evaluation of lameness, with room to turn the individual and observe his movement.

Figure 16.4 Crowd alley leading to hydraulic table that enables practitioner to fully evaluate lameness up close.

A hydraulic tilt table is preferred as it allows full access to the upper part of the limbs and allows the animal to be positioned in either left or right recumbency (Figures 16.5 and 16.6). Most hydraulic tilt chutes only allow the animal to be placed in a single position. Animal restraint on a tilt table is also easier due to the application of belly bands for support and leg ropes used to restrain limbs on the table. Leg ropes should also be used with a tilt chute, especially the down forelimb (Figure 16.7).

Figure 16.5 Bull prepared for placement in lateral recumbency on hydraulic tilt table.

Figure 16.6 Bull in lateral recumbency on hydraulic tilt table. Observe the leg restraints applied to this case.

Figure 16.7 The down forelimb tied in a tilting hydraulic chute to discourage repositioning of the animal while restrained in the chute.

Placement of the animal on a tilt table is an orchestrated team effort, usually requiring at least two people. There is inherent risk in releasing the restraints at the end of the examination or procedure. Any bovid that is expected to be in lateral recumbency for longer than 15 minutes should be fasted for at least 24 hours before the procedure to reduce possible development of rumen tympany. Also, during lateral recumbency, the animal should be continually observed for any evidence of regurgitation, especially if sedation is used. If regurgitation occurs, the animal should be immediately returned to an upright position (Figure 16.8).

Figure 16.8 Evidence of rumen tympany and/or regurgitation of rumen contents should lead to immediate removal of animal from lateral recumbency.