Intracare’s commitment to innovative hoof care solutions

For over 2 decades, Intracare has been a leading name in hoof care solutions, offering farmers a trusted partner in keeping their animals thriving. Van Geest answers some pertinent questions on this important topic and talks about the company’s journey, its commitment to innovation, and the importance of sustainable practices and challenges in today’s dairy industry.

What led Intracare to focus on hoof care?

At Intracare, we understand the deep connection farmers have with their animals. In our mission to keep cows comfortable and productive, we recognise that healthy hooves are crucial for their well-being and productivity. That’s why, over 20 years ago, we decided to dedicate ourselves to developing innovative and effective hoof care solutions.

What global challenges do you see that lead to hoof health problems and lameness in dairy cows?

The economic squeeze on dairy farms worldwide often creates a difficult situation for hoof health. Tight margins often lead to prioritising milk production over preventive measures like regular hoof trimming or providing comfortable flooring. This can compromise hoof health and increase lameness, ultimately costing farms more in reduced milk yield and potential culling of affected cows.

Can you tell us about the impact Intra Hoof-fit Gel has had on the industry?

Our launching product, Intra Hoof-fit Gel, with its unique antibiotic-free formula, was a game-changer. Our company started with a mission to create a healthier future through innovative, antibiotic-free products. Initially, these alternatives faced an uphill battle. Antibiotics were seen as a miracle cure for many diseases and there was a lack of information about the risks of antibiotic resistance. Thankfully, public awareness of antibiotic resistance has grown tremendously, which resonated with farmers’ growing concerns about responsible antibiotic use. This focus on sustainability and animal welfare earned us the title of the real “green” solution, a distinction we wear with pride.

To prioritise the safety of animals, farmers, the environment, and, of course, the final consumer, we strive to create products that are guaranteed safe and proven to be free from any potential risks, such as antibiotic residues in the milk.

Intracare’s product line has expanded beyond the original gel. What drove this business strategy?

While the Intra Hoof-fit Gel was quite a success, we saw the potential to offer a more comprehensive approach to hoof and skin care. Through continuous research and development, we’ve created a diverse range of products catering to the specific needs of dairy cows and other livestock. This commitment ensures that farmers have access to the most effective solutions for their entire herd’s well-being in prevention and cure.

How important is it for Intracare to stay at the forefront of innovation?

It’s absolutely paramount. We heavily invest in R&D, constantly pushing the boundaries of hoof care. We believe in the power of science to develop not only effective products and veterinary medicines according to the highest pharmaceutical GMP-standards, but also solutions that comply with the strictest regulations worldwide. This ensures the safety and efficacy of our products for both animals and the environment.

Looking ahead, what are Intracare’s goals for the future?

From monitoring health to managing hoof care, technology and automation are transforming dairy farms with precision farming. These advancements lead to both increased efficiency and improved well-being. We remain dedicated to being a leader in hoof care innovation and a trusted partner for farmers worldwide. We will continue to expand our solutions and products for future proof farming and safeguarding the long-term success of the dairy industry.
By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and animal welfare, Intracare is well-positioned to continue playing a leading role in shaping the future of dairy farming for generations to come.

Learn more about Intra Hoof-fit by clicking here.