As of Jan. 1, 2017, the National Milk Producers Federation set a ban on tail docking.

Calves experience the least amount of stress when dehorned before they are 2 weeks old. For young calves, two dehorning methods can be used: paste and burning.

Pest control comes in many forms. Although fly season is over, birds, rats and mice can be just as costly to dairy farmers.

Pests can be costly to dairy farmers due to disease transmission and irritation. Whether pests feed upon animals or are simply a nuisance, they can reduce milk production and decrease weight gains.