When working with dairies that are learning about robotic milking equipment, we always discuss maintenance costs. People tell me they’ve heard this cost is high. They want to know if this is true and, if so, why.

Robotics have gained momentum in nearly every industry, and dairy technology is leading the charge. Several companies are successfully installing their robotic milking systems on dairy farms throughout the U.S.

There are many different factors that can contribute to a liner’s performance and, with the variety of brands and models out there, it could be as difficult as finding your next car. Today, you can choose shapes ranging from round to triangle to square – and even hybrid shapes in between.

Do you know what causes about 50 percent of lameness cases in dairy cattle? Digital dermatitis. This disease is tricky to manage and can cause serious economic losses if not controlled.

Eighty-seven hoof trimming enthusiasts attended this year’s Wisconsin Hoof Trimmers Getaway held in Tomah, Wisconsin, February 10-11.

What do heat stress, low-quality colostrum and lower-than-average daily gains during the pre-weaning period all have in common? Each of these can impact the expression of a dairy heifer’s genetic potential, translating into lifetime effects such as lower milk production, lower reproductive efficiency and decreased longevity.

When packing supplies to go to the show, the very best way to accomplish the task so nothing is left at home is to walk yourself through the day at the show.

Recently, our community held a fast for rain. The drought here has been the worst in my lifetime. Arizona has always been dry, but now it is burning up. We didn’t get the usual winter snow and spring rains, so we are fearful of forest fires – and with good reason.

Southern Italy can be a tough place to live. My girlfriend is a hardened product of its streets. She rode the public bus two hours to school each day while ignoring the perverse catcalls of nefarious men (and once a slap in the face from an old woman).

We all know dairy farmers are some of the smartest, most innovative and creative people in the world. Who else gets to do everything and be everyone? We get to be accountants, doctors, teachers, chefs … heck, some of us even have a bit of interest in robotics, microbiology, genetics, nutrigenomics and environmentalism.