Abstract: Applicants have discovered a novel induction method for inducing digital dermatitis lesions consistent with the natural disease process. Applicants have prepared a consortium including a macerated tissue culture that may be used in the method as well as a novel inoculation procedure. The consortia of microbes includes isolates of Treponema phagedenis, Porphorymonas, and Bacteroides and the invention includes use of these novel isolates in preventing and treating digital dermatitis. The invention can be used to screen, test or compare the relative efficacy of various drugs and biologics for use in treatment or control of digital dermatitis.

Abstract: Applicants have discovered a novel induction method for inducing digital dermatitis lesions consistent with the natural disease process. Applicants have prepared a consortium including a macerated tissue culture that may be used in the method as well as a novel inoculation procedure. The consortia of microbes includes isolates of Treponema phagedenis, Porphorymonas, and Baceteroides and the invention includes use of these novel isolates in preventing and treating digital dermatitis. The invention can be used to screen, test or compare the relative efficacy of various drugs and biologics for use in treatment or control of digital dermatitis.