Click here to download the latest update from Dairy Management, Inc. This pdf features information regarding the recent milk radiation issue. PD

Vets Plus, Inc. (VPI) announced a name change and a new VPI logo at www.vets-plus.com. The acquisition of BOMAC New Zealand by Bayer (Germany) in 2010 initiated the transition of the 22-year-old animal health manufacturer back to its original name of Vets Plus, Inc., fresh with a new logo. This logo emphasizes Vets Plus, Inc., as a global leader in animal health not only with text, but also with graphics by maintaining the signature upside-down triangle with “Vets Plus” at the top, and an image of a globe at the point.

The New York State Cattle Health Assurance Program (NYSCHAP) animal welfare review program for dairy producers is the second of its kind to be granted certified program status by the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization, Inc. (PAACO). Earning the PAACO-certified distinction signifies that the New York dairy program has met or exceeded all of PAACO’s minimum standards from start to finish as a rigorous, comprehensive audit program and instrument.

The feature story about demand for fluid milk on the cover of this year’s June Dairy Month issue has been in development for several months. Fluid milk represents a significant portion of U.S. domestic demand. And it’s in trouble again.

For anyone who grew up in a small town, I’m sure you will probably agree that “everyone knowing you” is both a blessing and a curse. Unfortunately, our parents somehow already knew about the shenanigans we pulled before we even got home. But on the flip side, there was usually someone nearby who’d help us get out of a jam before anyone else found out. And for many of us who moved “back home” after school, we’re still hoping nobody remembers who we were during our rebellious high school days!

There are many theories as to why milk prices have gone higher since the lows of 2009. Some will argue that the CWT cow kills removed enough production capacity so as to shorten the available milk supply for processors, thus raising their effective bid. Others will make a case for growing export demand and the broad sweeping interest that foreign buyers have for our products. Some will bring up the crippling weather conditions experienced throughout the Oceania region that shortened their feed availability and ultimately their milk supply.