“I installed an automated heat detection system, but it is flagging cows that are not in heat. I’m so frustrated.” This is a very common complaint from dairy farmers. They are told an activity system will find the cows in heat better than their personnel, which is true, but they are never told what to do with the extra cows on the list. 

Early detection of mastitis cases is considered the best option to allow cows the best chance for a quick recovery. Until now, mastitis detection has been based on seeing clinical signs, such as a swollen quarter or flakes in the milk.

Fresh cow metabolic problems are likely the factor with the most devastating effects on milk production and reproductive performance in dairy cattle because a lot of them go unnoticed.

Correct time of insemination is important to ensure conception but also to make sure the embryo has the best conditions to survive long term. An old oocyte has higher probabilities of early embryonic death, and if we breed too early, the sperm may die before the oocyte is ready to be fertilized.

Resting time is commonly accepted as an indicator of cow comfort. Observations reveal first-lactation cows rest less than adult cows during the first month of lactation. There is also a clear diurnal pattern in resting time with longer resting periods during nighttime compared to daytime.