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 […]
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 […]
Susie Hann, her husband Martin and son Ryan are dairying near Frome, Somerset. With the wider team, Andy, Jake and Ellie, as well as Martin’s parents, the team are robotic milking 220 pedigree Holsteins on a liquid milk contract. British Dairying catches up with Susie, who gives us an insight into their calf rearing. KEY […]
Foot rot is a pervasive and debilitating condition affecting sheep worldwide, significantly impacting animal welfare and farm productivity. This infectious disease, characterized by severe inflammation and decay of the hoof, leads to lameness, reduced mobility, and decreased productivity in affected sheep. Effective management and prevention are crucial to maintaining a healthy flock. One innovative solution […]
Cow lameness is a multifaceted issue within the dairy industry, encompassing various factors such as genetics, nutrition, management practices, and environmental conditions. Lameness in cows often stems from hoof injuries and structural abnormalities, leading to discomfort, pain, and compromised movement. One precursor to lameness is the increased incidence of concussion, defined as the repetitive impact […]
