What is best for spring calving herds? Focusing on rubber flooring and improved cubicle design. Executive Summary Spring Turnout 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 […]
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. Raising strong, healthy calves is the cornerstone of a productive dairy or beef herd. Outdoor calf rearing in Calf-Tel hutches is becoming increasingly popular, supported by the […]
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. […]
Flex Appeal: Modernising Dairy Farming with Flexible Stalls and Flex Feed When it comes to dairy farming, cow comfort and welfare are top priorities. Of course, optimising milk production and quality is a skill honed by the herdsmen, but this can be aided by product development. Innovations like Flex Stalls and Flex Feed are game […]
We have all likely experienced those calves that are slow to take their first breath, slow to nurse, or have some swelling in their tongue or face after a difficult birth. These newborns require extra time and attention over the early weeks of life to make sure they overcome the added stress of a difficult […]
