Research shows that dry cows and bred heifers are just as vulnerable to heat stress, even if the signs are less visible. When a dry cow or bred heifer experiences heat stress, her unborn calf does too writes Taylor Leach who shares the long term effects of heat stress on the dairy herd.
Source: Bovine Practitioner, June 2, 2025. Link. While the lactating herd often gets the fans, misters and extra attention, dry cows and bred heifers need cooling just as much, especially those in the final weeks of gestation. “The dry period is a critical 45- to 60-day window. It’s when the cow is regenerating her mammary tissue, maintaining body condition and growing her calf,” explained Carly Becker, MS. emphasizing the need to provide dry cows ventilated barns or ways to stay cool.
The heat of one summer can ripple through a herd’s productivity for years.”
INSIGHTS: Protecting our dairy herds’ futures starts with KEEPing the COWS who carry it COOL. The graphic image alone makes this article actionable. We doubt there is a single producer who wouldn’t appreciate a phone call followed by an email link to this article.
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