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Udder health during the dry period

The dry period is one of the most important phases of the lactation cycle. This period sets the foundation for the health and productivity of the cow in the upcoming lactation.

During the dry period the udder is more at risk for bacterial infections. Cows are naturally protected against intramammary infections during the dry period by the formation of a keratin plug in the teat canal.

However, the time of closure varies, and 25 to 50% of quarters fail to form an adequate seal within six weeks of drying off.1 This highlights the importance of good dry cow management practices to help reduce the risk of mastitis.

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The role of internal teat sealants

Internal teat sealants mimic the natural keratin plug in the teat canal, creating a physical barrier that prevents bacteria from entering the udder. Research shows that the use of teat sealants at dry off provides immediate protection, increases teat-end closure and reduces cases of mastitis by up to 50%.2

This suggests internal teat sealants are an essential component of a comprehensive dry off strategy.

Why choose Lockout® as your teat sealant

Using an internal teat sealant at dry off is an additional way to safeguard udder health and prevent mastitis in cows.

With its advanced engineering and highly efficient application process, Lockout® is the preferred teat sealant in Canada.3

Here are some key features that set Lockout® apart and make it the best choice:

• Visible blue paste: Lockout®’s distinctive blue paste is easy to distinguish from milk, helping to ensure that removal has occurred.

• Application indicator: Lockout® includes a user-friendly application indicator, providing visual confirmation that a full dose of the sealant has been properly applied.

• Ergonomic design: Lockout®’s ergonomic design and easy-to-remove cap makes the application process fast, easy and hygienic. This design guarantees optimal results and enhances user experience.
 


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By choosing Lockout®'s advanced engineering and user-friendly design, you can confidently ensure the well-being of your herd and maximize the productivity of your dairy operations.

Learn why Lockout® is the better engineered teat sealant

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Related articles

 

1. Dingwell RT, Leslie KE, Schukken YH, et al. Association of cow and quarter-level factors at drying-off with new intramammary infections during the dry period. Prev Vet Med. 2004;63(1-2):75–89.

2. Dufour S, Wellemans V, Roy JP, Lacasse P, Ordonez-Iturriaga A, Francoz D. Non-antimicrobial approaches at drying-off for treating and preventing intramammary infections in dairy cows. Part 1. Meta-analyses of efficacy of using an internal teat sealant without a concomitant antimicrobial treatment. Anim Health Res Rev. 2019;20(1):86–97.

3. Impact Vet, May 2024

Lockout® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, used under license. All other marks are property of their respective owners.