Executive Summary Each spring, dairy farmers across the UK prepare for one of the most important nutritional changes in the production year: transition feeding when turning cows out to grass. Moving from a silage-based diet to fresh pasture offers major cost advantages. Grazed grass remains one of the cheapest sources of energy available to dairy […]
Spring is one of the most demanding periods of the year for dairy cows. Turnout is often inconsistent, with wet weather and changing ground conditions meaning cows spend more time on concrete and in cubicles than many farms might anticipate. Instead of moving steadily onto grass, many herds can experience a stop–start transition between housing […]
Executive Summary Spring turnout is one of the most important management transitions in the dairy calendar. Moving cows from winter housing onto fresh grass can significantly reduce feed costs, but it also introduces nutritional and health challenges that require careful preparation. In the UK, grazed grass remains one of the most cost-effective feeds available […]
Executive Summary Why Housing Conditions Influence Grazing Success Spring turnout marks a major shift in the dairy production cycle. Cows move from winter housing onto grazing pasture, walking further distances and adapting to a different diet. However, the success of the grazing season often depends on something much less visible: how comfortable cows were during […]
Executive Summary Cow comfort is still too often framed as a welfare issue, something important but secondary to production. That mindset is quietly costing dairy farms money every day. In reality, cow comfort is an operational performance issue. It directly affects milk yield consistency, feed efficiency, fertility, health costs and labour demand. Farms with poor […]
Executive Summary Independent dairy research consistently shows lameness prevalence as one of the top three welfare and productivity issues on commercial farms. Lameness remains one of the most persistent challenges facing modern dairy farms. It affects cow welfare, milk production and long-term herd performance, and for many producers it can feel difficult to tackle once it […]
Executive Summary Improving cow comfort does not require a full shed rebuild or a six-figure capital investment. On many dairy farms, the biggest gains come from incremental, well-targeted upgrades that address the everyday stress points cows experience in housing, feeding, and resting areas. By focussing on changes that deliver measurable benefits to health, behaviour, and […]
Discover the benefits of rearing calves outdoors in Calf-Tel hutches, supported by a robust hygiene routine, quality feeding systems, and rumen-development setups for optimal calf health and growth. IntroductionRaising strong, healthy calves is the cornerstone of a productive dairy or beef herd. Increasing numbers of farmers are choosing Calf-Tel hutches for outdoor calf rearing, recognising […]
Wednesday 5th February.
Summer’s warm breath is upon us, and the unwelcome buzz of flies comes with it. These pests are more than just a nuisance for your calves; they can spread diseases, disrupt sleep, and hinder growth. But fear not! By implementing a proactive fly control plan, you can create a haven of peace for your calves. […]
