Down Cow Movement Solutions





















A Dairy Farmer Created CowRecovery as a Sustainable Down Cow Solution
Colin Smith — June 19, 2025The CowRecovery solution addresses the significant challenge posed by down cows—animals that are unable to stand due to health issues or injury—which raises concerns regarding animal welfare, operational efficiency, and worker safety on dairy farms. Traditional methods for managing down cows, such as the use of tractor buckets or makeshift devices, have been noted for their associated hazards and inefficiencies. In contrast, the CowRecovery system has been developed as a sustainable, cost-effective solution that leverages a purpose-built approach to safely move down cows, thereby reducing the risks of injury to both the animals and farm personnel.
The system utilizes a specially modified telehandler bucket alongside a refined moving technique designed to optimize cow welfare and minimize physical strain on handlers. Additionally, the solution is supported by a comprehensive training program that ensures users are equipped with the knowledge necessary for consistent and safe operation. This structured approach not only aims to mitigate the risks inherent in the manual handling of compromised animals but also contributes to better overall management practices in the dairy industry by reducing the incidence of associated financial losses and improving animal health outcomes.