Clinical Studies “A short term study of 15 lactating cows suffering from sole abscess formation demonstrated a rapid return to milk production following paring out and drainage of the abscesses in combination with the application of the CowSlip to the healthy claw. Milk yield over a 7 day period improved an average of 16.8lbs for early and 7.2lbs for late lactation cows. Cowslips offer a convenient and highly effective alternative for treatment of claw disorders requiring rest of the affected digit.” J.K. Shearer and J.B. Elliot, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida   The application of foot blocks onto healthy claws for the relief of weight-bearing in diseased or damaged claws reduces discomfort and promotes recovery from claw disorders. Proper trimming of the claw must be done before the application of the Cowslip. In cases where excess toe length prevents placement of the block to provide proper heel support one can modify the block by cutting away the toe portion of the block (by making a sandal). This allows the operator to slide the foot block back toward the heel to provide proper support. Thin soles are a frequent problem in confinement dairies. Thin soles subject the solar corium to bruising and white line separation. Since the soles of both claws are usually affected (including the one chosen for the application of the Cowslip) use of a cushion (made from rubber inner tubes) in the sole of the block permits one to apply a block and reduce the consequences of increased weight-bearing on the blocked claw. Finally, it is not uncommon to find lesions in both claws of the same foot. By removing that portion of the block directly underlying the claw lesion one can relieve weight-bearing at the site of the lesion yet still accomplish the objectives of proper foot block application. Adapted from the ABSTRACT presented in Parma, Italy at the XI International Symposium by T. Rollins, Alliance Dairy, Inc.