We use cookies to provide you with a better experience. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy.
About two years ago, we started using sexed semen on virgin heifers to accelerate our genetic improvements, and our heifer numbers were looking to exceed our replacement needs. We had purchased a bred Holstein heifer that freshened with a black beef cross bull calf, and we sold him at about 3 days old for 20 to 25 percent more than his Holstein counterparts.
The MilkShuttle of the company Urban for simple transportation of calf milk is now optionally equipped with an integrated pasteurizer. When pasteurizing the milk, germs and bacteria are reliably killed by heating the milk at 145°F, while all the important nutrients are preserved.
Cow comfort measures, such as misters and fans, can be effective steps to help protect dairy cows from heat stress. Producers, however, should not overlook the importance of feed management and nutritional strategies to help offset the effects of heat stress not only on milk production, but also cow health.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on July 31 that it is requesting comments from the public, including scientific data and information, that would assist the agency in identifying and evaluating measures that might minimize the impact of harmful bacteria in cheeses made from unpasteurized milk.
A good death is one whereby life is ended without pain or distress to the animal, said Dr. J.K. Shearer in a presentation at the Four-State Dairy Nutrition and Management Conference earlier this year. No one likes to do it, but finding the best way to euthanize an animal is important.
If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me about the horrible “factory farms” that dominate modern agriculture today, I’d be retiring next year. This is especially true anytime I go home to visit my family in Connecticut.
RSS
