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163. Cows walk considerable distances when grazing. These distances can increase significantly when they walk to and from fields to be milked. It is therefore important to consider carefully the composition, condition and length of any track used to permit cattle to move from the milking facilities/housed area to pasture. There is good evidence that the quality and type of surface, together with the speed at which the cows are driven, can have important influences on foot health.
164. When allowed to walk at their own speed, cows are able to place their feet carefully to avoid obstacles or rough or sharp objects. They walk, more or less, in single file and develop well-worn cow tracks. If forced to hurry, they bunch together and cannot choose where to place their feet, thus being much more likely to sustain damage from, for example, sharp stones. This is a particular problem on rough or stony ground.
165. There has recently been renewed interest in specialised farm tracks which allow cows to walk in comfort. These are constructed with a base which allows quick drainage and a soft surface such as shredded bark with no sharp material included. They have been shown to be effective if constructed and used correctly.
166. Care should be taken when driving cows to and from pasture. They should be allowed to travel at their own speed and not made to hurry by the use of tractors or dogs.
167. Attention should be paid to the quality of the surface along which cows have to walk. In particular, the surface should not consist of sharp stones, rubble or gravel.
168. Consideration should be given to the construction of special cow tracks which should be properly maintained and not used by farm machinery.
169. Gateways, narrow tracks and the areas surrounding water troughs require special attention as they are often covered with sharp stones, rubble or gravel and are liable to become muddy in wet weather.