Calving problems are common. Early intervention not only prevents calf losses but also protects subsequent fertility. This article outlines a calving management program with procedures, flowchart and pictures. Management of calving on large dairy farms>> 

A recent study showed that difficult calvings was related to calf mortality. As the level of difficulty increased, death rate of the resulting calves also increased. Management changes to reduce the death rate of these calves are listed in this article: Dystocia calves (assisted deliveries)>>

Giving calves a good start in life will help them grow into productive cows. A clean calving environment and timely feeding of good colostrum is essential. But, how clean is clean? And what is “good” colostrum? Read more about Colostrum Management in this article: Developing Quality Dairy Replacement Heifers>>

Pregnancy rate is a key determinant of farm productivity and profitability. High pregnancy rates depend on a rapid return of normal reproductive function after calving. Both energy status and blood calcium levels impact ovarian and uterine function: Managing The Postpartum Cow To Maximize Pregnancy Rates>>

Cows die and as they do, we must be prepared to properly dispose of their carcasses. Dairymen are advised to look ahead, consider the options and develop a plan for managing this inevitability. The most common methods of carcass disposal are burial, composting, incineration and rendering. Here is a brief summary of the different methods. Euthanasia and Carcass Disposal>>

Milking robot in Finland - Mankinmylly farm

In 2005 Paula Havo-Ossi and Pasi Ossi from Savitaipale, Finland invested in a milking robot that milks 65 cows 2.5 times a day. The average milk yield is 9,800 kilograms, but their goal is 11,000 kilograms. The work has become so much lighter than before. “We could manage another herd of 65 cows with the same effort as today,” say Paula and Pasi. Read more here>>

We receive many questions about buffaloes, so we would like to inform you that there is a series of articles in the Library that contains information on all areas of Buffalo Milk Production>> There is also a 48 part series about bovine biology. The series depicts dairy animals, specifically organ description, physiology, and function. Read more>>