As you know, cows rise and lie down 10 to 15 times a day. The cow must therefore have sufficient space for these actions, and her movements must not be hindered by the elements that make up the cubicle. She must not be constrained by a bar or risk injury from a stopper. Wooden or concrete stoppers may block the animals, but they can also cause trauma and even leg injuries.
To reconcile restraint and comfort in livestock buildings, Bioret has developed Aqua Board, a water kneeling pad. The Aqua Board consists of a water reservoir attached to the front of a cubicle mattress. This kneeling pad is made to measure according to the length of the cubicle bay. This water pocket absorbs shocks when the cow lies down, bringing her to a gentle halt.
Adaptable to all formats, the made-to-measure comfort solution
Thanks to its lateral fastenings, the Aqua Board kneepad adapts to all types of cubicle. Its height can be adjusted from 12 to 22 cm to suit different herd sizes, cubicles and mattresses. By adjusting the filling, you can control the height and hardness of the kneepads. The Aqua Board ensures restraint and comfort. The proof is in the natural position adopted by cows lying on the Aqua Board, often with one leg extended forward. The device enhances the level of comfort provided by Aquastar and AquaClim mattresses.
In his new building, Hugo Lucas, a breeder in the Côtes d'Armor region, has improved cow comfort by equipping his cubicles with Aquastar mattresses and Aqua Board knee pads. « Ensuring quality bedding is important for milk production and cow longevity," stresses the young breeder. In this new building, without changing the feed, we've gained 3 to 4 kilos of milk per cow. There is much less lameness and bed sores, as the cows lie down and get up without risk of injury. »The Aqua Board kneepad's concern for cattle welfare earned it a silver medal at the Eurotier international trade show.