Division of Extension
Colostrum is an essential source of nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that set calves up for a strong start to life. Years of research have consistently shown the most critical management factor for calf health and survival is providing early, adequate volumes of high-quality colostrum.
Ventilation is vital in dairy barns for maintaining air quality, removing heat and moisture, and providing a comfortable environment for cows. Ventilation can be achieved through mechanical or natural systems that utilize thermal buoyancy and wind pressure.
Dr. Paul Fricke moderates a Wisconsin dairy farmer panel consisting of David Jauquet, Mike Martin, Jeff McNeely, and Chuck Ripp. These dairy farmers give highlights of protocols used on their dairies that help them achieve higher fertility success.
Calves born with knuckle over pasterns, also known as contracted tendons, present a unique challenge for dairy and beef producers.
Proper housing is essential for the health and growth of dairy and beef calves. It provides a clean, dry, and comfortable environment to support healthy development and minimize disease risks.
Cows are creatures of habit. They thrive on predictable routines, gentle handling, and calm surroundings. A consistent routine in the milking parlor helps cows to relax.
Las vacas son criaturas de hábitos. Se benefician de rutinas predecibles, de un manejo suave y de ambientes tranquilos.
Cuando las vacas son manejadas apropiadamente, sus miedos y niveles de estrés se mantienen al mínimo. Las vacas en calma producen más leche y se comportan de manera más predecible, reduciendo los riesgos de lesiones a ellas mismas o a los humanos que cuidan de ellas.
Lameness issues impact every dairy herd in one form or another. Not only does lameness affect a cow’s health and well-being, but it’s also costly to the farm’s bottom line.
Milk fever (hypocalcemia) is a common disorder than can occur is cows following calving. During this time, the demand for calcium in the body is high to support mammary function and milk production. When a cow is unable to meet these demands, she can develop milk fever.
This article will explain the factors, farm practices associated with them, and key questions to help you investigate and manage milk fat depression in your herd.
Dairy cattle diets are formulated on a dry matter (DM) basis, so it is important to understand what that means. All forages and feeds contain both water and dry matter so, in a simplistic way, the DM fraction refers to the absence of water.
