Check out my dedicated “Understanding Cows” blog site!
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Coaching Skills for the Farm Vet
The magic question game There is a game which is sometimes used during coaching training. One person thinks of a real problem they have, or something they would like to do, but have been putting off. They keep this to themselves. The other players take turns to ask one question each to the problem-holder. The [...]
Some thoughts for farm vets when giving advice
Giving advice to farmers is an essential daily part of a farm vet’s job. Preferably, this is not unsolicited advice; it is always better to have the farmer actively seek your help (ask for it). This is more likely if you can conduct the right kind of conversation, and make yourself very approachable and open. [...]
Responsible use of antibiotics on dairy farms
This is a hot subject so let’s not rake over old ground. You may not yet fully understand the mechanics of resistance but you will surely have heard how penicillin was discovered by accident only 70 years ago but has changed medicine indescribably; and how widespread resistance would result in cataclysmic consequences. Let’s not delve [...]
Dairy Farming in Sudan
I have an involvement with a 600 cow dairy in Sudan a consultancy basis. It is an interesting farm and an interesting aspect of my job. I recently returned from a short trip there. 45deg C but a dry heat. With good fans and misters, it is possible to provide a comfortable environment for the [...]
Tough Times call for Tough Decisions
Last month, I attended the #Decisions4Dairy forum, representing the British Cattle Veterinary Association. It was a sobering meeting. This is how I wrote it up for BCVA members: “Decisions 4 Dairy Forum BCVA were invited to attend a recent cross-dairy-industry forum to discuss the current dire financial situation and low milk price for many producers. [...]
A day in the life of a dairy cow
A housed herd of 132 Jersey cows used in the study. Note nearly all cows are either standing to eat, or lying down in cubicles. There are very few “loafing” cows, or cows stood in cubicles viagra generique pas. See Time Budget for actual results. One of the four success factors for healthy feet is [...]
Routine Ketosis Testing
“Hi Owen, I attended your CPD day on the Rumen Health Visit a couple of months ago, and have been asked by a few farmers about monitoring ketosis. I wondered if you would be able to tell me whether you know of an electronic milk ketone meter I could get hold of for one of [...]
Digital Dermatitis
I often get asked about controlling digital dermatitis. Here is a recent query from Justin, and my response: “I know Digi is a bacteria spread usually by animals that are brought into the farm. They say it shows up when the cows immune system is low. But: How is it spread? Is it just coming [...]
Belly Ache
As further bad news regarding milk prices clouds the industry, it can be difficult to remain focussed on the bigger picture. And it is heartening that so many dairy farmers I speak to seem to be doing so. Cows which live in a comfortable environment have a lower cost of production. They live longer, enjoy [...]