Making milk is a lot of work, which is why it is important to provide a comfortable environment for the dairy cow, especially as temperatures rise. In fact, research shows that when cows spends more time resting and ruminating, they are better able to maintain milk production during times of heat stress.

Steve Gerratt cares a lot about his cows – all 6,250 of them. That’s why he decided to improve animal health and welfare by taking on lameness with his own two hands … literally.

Understanding the purpose of a footbath and how to more effectively use one on your dairy can save money and enhance the safety of cows, people and the environment. With all the talk and various topics concerning footbaths, the truth is that here has been very little true research on the topic. Most information is what seems to work at various places.

As dairy farmers, you try to do everything you can to keep your cows comfortable, clean and healthy. Even still, there are things you wish you could do differently – and maybe you would if you had the time, help or money. Sound familiar?

“There is a revolution going on in activity systems,” said Kevin Havartine, Ph.D., assistant professor of nutritional physiology at Penn State University’s department of animal science.

As an evaluation specialist for the National Dairy FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) Program, Tim Raasch provides second-party verifications on dairy farms, where he ensures that high levels of animal care and quality assurance are being provided.