ParlorComp (part of the new VAS Platform) and its desktop companion ParlorWatch are at the forefront of dairy production management. These software technologies are capable of improving the quality and consistency of milk production today — but additional advancements now available have the opportunity to further raise the bar on quality and result in less waste/wasted profit.

It’s a love of animals that drive most into the veterinary field, followed by years of hard work and training.

 ANIMAL HEALTH Semex’s Elevate program delivers female Immunity+ test

With the VAS Platform now available in the U.S., there may be a few questions on how to access data. Two topics which have to do with accessing your data will be covered in this tip: how to access your herd’s dashboard and how to grant access to your herd data to others.

Earlier this year, the National Mastitis Council (NMC) launched a new online resource to its 1,000 members. The Teat Condition Portfolio allows users to quickly see and compare various teat conditions. They can then use this information to assess teat health and make recommendations for treatment.

This VAS DairyComp tip is on Breeding Quick Pick Sires. This is a new feature available in DairyComp that will increase accuracy and speed of entering breeding information using the Pocket CowCard (PCC) cow-side.

New natural disinfectant product treats digital dermatitis topically or in footbaths A new product made with natural oils derived from thyme can replace the formaldehyde or copper sulfate used in footbaths without affecting treatment rates for digital dermatitis. That’s what Environmental Technologies Inc. suggests is possible with its new product, Thymox, introduced to the market last year.

This month’s VAS tip is on feed management. Feed accounts for more than 50 percent of the cost of milk production – even the slightest variation in the process can swing milk production if inconsistencies and inefficiencies are not addressed.

This month’s VAS DC305 tip is on parlor performance. Using the parlor performance reports in DC305 can help you take advantage of the benefits of daily milk meters, plus look for cows that fail to produce the expected amount of milk. This data will help you: