Sharing information from Boehringer-Ingelheim, Audrey Schmitz’s article addresses some challenges at dry-off with high-producing cows. Teat sealants are frequently used to close teats in top milk producers as they are less likely to form a natural keratin plug. She shares the importance of keeping milking employees trained on identifying milk versus teat sealants, as well as the importance of applying the teat sealants correctly.
Source: Progressive Dairy, May 1, 2024. Link.
It is important to correctly differentiate mastitis from teat sealant residue to minimize unnecessary interventions and to make sure we’re using antibiotics judiciously on farms.”
Commentary: We routinely see articles like this that reinforce the need for continuous training and review at all levels of animal production and health. It’s easy to assume new employees are getting training and learning best practices. Still, veterinary teams make a real difference when they routinely reinforce training that influences animal health and production outputs. To that end, consider using VFD site visits to audit training on all microbials, other important products and on-farm treatment methods.