Cleaning and Disinfection on the Dairy Farm

Cleaning and Disinfection on the Dairy Farm. Article courtesy of Cornell University - Coolge of Veterinary Medicine. Cleaning and disinfecting are imperative to maintain the well-being and health of high-producing animals, such as dairy cows. This is especially the case in intensive modern housing where high...

Calving Pen Design and Management Crucial for Dam and Calf Success

Calving Pen Design and Management Crucial for Dam and Calf Success. By Jaclyn Krymowski. The close-up cow has a big transition ahead of her. In fact, the period from calving through postpartum recovery is perhaps one of the  most vulnerable and critical stages of her life. Many  stressors ...

Calving Pen Alternatives

Calving Pen Alternatives. By Phil Durst - Extension Dairy Educator.The calving pen is one of the most strategic locations on the farm. The four objectives of good calving pen management include:• comfort and low stress for the dam,• low health risk to dam and calf,• opportunity for seclusion by dam...

Improve Cow Longevity Starts with Quality Flooring

Improving Cow Longevity Starts with Quality Flooring. By Jessica Graham. World-wide, lameness is the third biggest contributor to reduced productivity in dairy cattle. Dairies will quickly cull lame cattle as they know lameness almost always means less milk produced and a high probability of infertility....

Free Flowing Winter Water

Free Flowing Winter Water. By Maura Keller.  As the days become shorter and temperatures begin to drop, dairy producers turn their attention to winter preparation for their dairy operations. In colder climates, when winter temperatures plummet and water freezes in all forms, one area of concern is providing...

What's Underfoot

What's Underfoot. Innovative Flooring Options Offer Ample Ways to add Comfort and Aid in Productivity with a Dairy Operation. By Maura Keller.The care and comfort of a dairy cows plays a direct role in the productivity and longevity of a herd. In addition, consumers are paying closer attention to animal...

Innovations in Cow Comfort

Innovations in Cow Comfort By Maura Keller. It goes without saying that the more comfortable a dairy cow is, the higher the productivity. And while the majority of dairy farmers focus on establishing the proper environs for dairy production, including clean milking equipment, safe and secure cubicles, and...

Pair Housing and Group Housing for Dairy Calves

Pair Housing and Group Housing for Dairy Calves. By Heather Smith Thomas.Young dairy calves have traditionally been housed in single-calf hutches, because this has been believed to be healthier than having contact with other calves.  Recent research and behavioral studies are showing that there are benefits...