Dairy Cattle Welfare « Informed Farmers

Dairy Cattle Welfare

By Asst Editor Dave T, on July 22nd, 2011

Make sure you attend to the welfare of your calves and heifers at all times. Below is an extract from the Australian Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals (SCA 1992). It was compiled by the Animal Health Committee of the Standing Committee on Agriculture.

Artificial Rearing of Calves

3.1 Housing for . . . → Read More: Dairy Cattle Welfare

The Reproductive Function of Dairy Cows

By Asst Editor Dave T, on May 4th, 2011

OVERVIEW OF THE DAIRY COW’S REPRODUCTIVE TRACT

The reproductive tract of a cow is located beneath the rectum—the last segment of the large intestine (Figure 1). Most parts of the reproductive tract can be examined indirectly when an arm is extended into the rectum (rectal palpation):

The cervix can be manipulated during artificial insemination; . . . → Read More: The Reproductive Function of Dairy Cows

Managing Dairy Cattle Milking in Wet Conditions

By Asst Editor Dave T, on March 25th, 2011

Factors Influencing The Indidence Of Mastitis

Extremely wet conditions are associated with higher rates of mastitis in dairy cows. This is because the udder’s natural defences against bacterial invasion can be overwhelmed by the muddy environment. Preventing mastitis hinges on maintaining the balance in favor of the cow’s natural defences over . . . → Read More: Managing Dairy Cattle Milking in Wet Conditions