Pfizer Animal Health has some advice to help producers develop prevention management practices. Using systematic and comprehensive monitoring programs for facility layout, animal flow and employee training can dairy producers increase profits.

“A good fresh cow management program is critical to the success and profitability of a dairy,” says Mark Kirkpatrick, DVM, Manager, Dairy Veterinary Operations, Pfizer Animal Health. “When fresh cows are kept healthy and comfortable, dairy producers also benefit from increased performance and revenue.”

Kirkpatrick says early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing serious fresh cow health problems and avoiding economic loss. He recommends that proper treatment protocols are followed consistently and producers work with their veterinarians to set up a fresh cow program that fits the needs of the individual dairy. Simple steps used when evaluating fresh cow health include:

* Allocate fresh pen space exclusively for fresh cows and stock at no more than 80 to 85 percent of total stocking density;
* Lock up time should not exceed two hours a day – according to Nigel Cook, MRCVS, University of Wisconsin – Madison;
* Avoid moving fresh cows in and out of the hospital pen