HERD HEALTH

Combatting lameness on dairy farms is a complex issue – and for many farms, days with zero lameness may seem unattainable.

Farm security is not always top of mind for producers, but unfortunately, it’s necessary to protect the safety of your animals, people on your property and your livelihood.

Before you are able to implement new management practices on your dairy, or before your nutritionist or vet can recommend a new practice, you and they must – or at least should – consult what has been proven through research.

Although major investments and advancements have been made in animal welfare science that are increasingly incorporated into animal production, effectively engaging consumers and other members of the public on the subject remains a challenge.

While the first 30ºC day is a blessed event for beachgoers and sunbathers, it is equally unwelcome in the dairy production sector.

All animals, including dairy cows, have four possible routes of exchanging heat energy with their environment. These are conduction, convection, radiation and evaporation.