Two important factors related to dry cow management include proper procedures for drying off cows and a clean, dry environment. Turning them out with limited oversight doesn’t optimize the dry off resting period. Amber Yutzy with Penn State Extension presents the importance of proactive management of this stage in dairy cows’ life.
Source: Dairy Herd Management, October 2020. Link.
If management standards are lacking in even one area, the farm may experience increased treatment costs during the next lactation due to new infections that developed during the dry period.” – Amber Yutzy, BS, MAg
INSIGHTS: Culling frequently accompanies dry off. More focus on dry off management may save a few cows who have performed inadequately due to previous poor dry off methods. Dry off is a topic on which veterinarians and salespersons can bring perspective and add value for the dairy owner and staff.