1. Define the problem. Use DHIA or on-farm records, bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) records, bulk tank cultures and individual cow cultures to try to determine which cows are infected and when they are getting infected.

Heat stress is both a cow health and an economic issue wherever dairies exist in North America.

Historically, extensive dairy cow lameness is a relatively new problem with many causes.

Since taking the parlor to the cow is impossible in most modern dairy systems, keeping cows healthy and able to walk without pain is paramount to getting milk in the tank. Matt and Karl Hendel changed their focus from maximum milk production to herd health and have found ways to keep lameness rare, veterinarian costs down and still have high milk production.

Every dairy producer knows that mastitis can have a substantial impact on milk production and on herd health.

Mastitis is a bacterial infection of the udder and is still the most costly disease in the dairy industry, with losses estimated as high as $300 per cow a year.

Bulk tank somatic cell count (BTSCC) is the most commonly used measure of udder health on most dairy farms.

Recent interest in animal welfare stems often from concerns related to intensive farming techniques.

Dairy operators face a number of management problems during the production season. One of these problems is the control of insect pests.

Mud in your pastures or corrals can depress feed intake, reduce feed efficiency, lead to acidosis, increase the incidence of clinical mastitis and cause injuries.