HERD HEALTH

Metritis is a common fresh cow disease that can affect up to 30 percent of a dairy herd. It can have serious impacts, including reduced fertility, lower milk production, a greater risk of culling and increased labour and treatment costs.

The dry period is a very critical time for dairy cows. It is supposed to be a time for cows to recuperate from the previous lactation and to get ready for the next lactation. Even though it is a break for the cow, the dry period can also be one of the busiest times for intramammary infections.

As we move to a new era of lower acceptable somatic cell levels, the prevention and control of mastitis takes on new importance. For many years, the contagious mastitis pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae and Mycoplasma bovis were the focus of control measures primarily implemented in the milking parlour to stop the spread of these organisms from cow-to-cow.

Nutrition in the postfresh pen may be the true determination of a successful lactation.

Often referred to as the most critical time in a cow’s life, the transition period sets the stage for milk production, reproduction and overall health.

“The only thing that should happen at calving time is that the cow should deliver a live, healthy calf.”

What you don’t know can hurt you, and it could hurt your cows, too.