In the dairy industry, we often underestimate the power of parasites. Parasites have the ability to impact conception rates, milk production and immunity. It’s often assumed a herd is parasite-free simply because there are no outward signs of parasitism.

In the dairy industry, it’s a commonly held belief that cow comfort contributes to healthier and higher-producing dairy herds. One additional way to increase cow comfort is to manage and control ectoparasites like mange and lice. Comfortable cows simply produce more milk. Dr. Brian Miller, professional service veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., says an annual whole-herd parasite control program is the best way to keep irritating and painful mange at bay.