Proper growth of dairy heifers from weaning until six to eight months of age directly impacts future milk production and economics of heifer rearing programs and, ultimately, the profitability of the entire dairy operation, writes Maureen Hanson. Research continues to show how proper growth during this phase can positively impact milk production. Hanson shares ways to avoid the slumps.
Source: Dairy Herd Management, March 3, 2020. Link.
INSIGHTS: There are plenty of resources to help with body condition scoring in dairy cattle. You have to dig a little to find the heifer recommendations. BCS in post-wean heifers is a good discussion topic for DVMs and sales representatives who call on dairies. Dairy producers sometimes need a gentle reminder to look at their heifers differently than their older cows. It’s probably worth bringing up on a phone call as there are economic benefits for the whole herd.