The dairy industry's reliance on indoor housing systems that restrict animal movement has raised concerns about animal welfare. Although many dairy farms in Canada still rely on facilities that restrict animal movement without providing pasture access, studies have shown that cows benefit greatly from spending time outdoors. 

“Exceptions are expensive,” said a dairy producer at a recent conference. This producer was explaining how his farm prefers to use sort gates to pull out cows that need attention after they are milked, as opposed to headlocks where the entire pen of cows is held up to treat those that are the exception.

Find a lawyer you like. Ask other farmers which professionals have served them well. You can also go to the Canadian Association of Farm Advisors directory to find great advisers who care about agricultural families.

“We are seeing the top herds being managed with 30-60 day dry periods with 45 days an optimum number. By forcing dry-off, late lactation intake of high-energy diets during low production days is avoided. This practice staves off adding extra weight for the upcoming dry period.”    Dr. Ryan Pralle

Researchers are testing alternative, automated methods for assessment of lameness to identify and treat cows before more severe lameness develops.

Heat stress and its effects can begin at relatively low temperatures combined with high humidity. The effects can be long-lasting and wreak havoc on production, reproduction.