This valuable product is used in cases of calving paralysis which commonly cause knuckling-under of one, or sometimes both, hind legs. Generally, application of the BOS (Bovine Orthopaedic Splint) splint will allow the animal normal mobility almost immediately after application.

The BOS splint is moulded from ABS plastic to conform to the shape of a cow’s leg. It is lined with closed-cell foam for comfort and is applied to the back of the hind leg, using the elastic adhesive bandage supplied. The BOS splint is best suited to treating cows with paralysis in one hind leg. It can also be used to treat a cow with a severed extensor tendon. It assists a cow to walk without falling, enabling faster recovery. The cow can generally rejoin the herd immediately.

The BOS splint is simply applied to the back of the leg using the special adhesive elastic bandage included in the kit. The splint bottom should be at ground level. Be sure to note ‘TOP’ marking on splint. Three sizes available: 

• Small 47cm (blue) - suitable for Jersey or smaller Friesian cows
• Large 51cm (orange) - suitable for Friesian or Holstein cows 
• XLarge 56cm (lilac) - suitable for very large Holstein (northern hemisphere breeds).

Leave the splint in place from 4-7 days, depending on the severity of the condition. In all cases the splint can be moulded somewhat to the individually required shape by use of a heat gun or hair dryer. 

Supplied with 3.5m roll of 7.5cm elastic adhesive for secure application. The BOS splint can be reused with a new bandage 207513. 

Note: Administration of anti-inflammatories at initial splint application may also be beneficial. Consult your veterinarian.

Calving Paralysis

Calving paralysis is damage to the nerves supplying the muscles of the hind limb. It can be caused by a large calf or a prolonged or difficult delivery. Most commonly only one leg is affected, but in some cases both hind legs can be paralysed. The symptoms range from slight knuckling of the fetlock joint to complete paralysis of both hind limbs and the cow unable to rise. Research has shown that 25% of all cases of cows with calving paralysis, fall and break a leg or rupture ligaments when they try to walk.