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D A I R Y C O F E A T U R E
looking at getting some of the concrete
passageways grooved as they are a bit
slippery in places.’
With 180 cows housed over the winter,
the brothers were pleased to notice how
well the cows were using the mattress and
sand-bedded cubicles. ‘If we were to add
extra cubicles in the future we would just
copy what we've got. We also need to
give the cows a larger feeding area, so
we discussed what type of manger to put
in so the cows are comfortable feeding,’
Stephen continues.
‘I have always checked the cows three
or four times a day, but now I am more
aware of how they are behaving and
using the shed. I look at whether they are
cudding well and looking full - you just
have to imagine that you're a stranger
looking at the unit for the first time.’
The Cow Signals approach looks for the
secrets of success in dairy farming. Cows
need a high amount of Feed, Water, Light,
Air, Space and Rest. If you give it to them,
they have little reason to become ill anymore
and are strong, happy, healthy cows.
On every dairy in the world, one of these
points will be the most critical for cow health
and welfare - and for the farmer's income.
Often, 3 or 4 of these items can be improved.
THE FACT S
Strong, healthy, happy cows:
l
lie down for 12hrs/day in comfy beds
l
have one feed space and lying
space each
l
enjoy 16 hours light, and 8 hours dark
l
stay cool! between 5 and 15 °C
l
have milking times : 2hrs/day
l
have access to tasty feed and water
24hrs/day
…and if they have ‘special needs’, they
will be on super soft, super spacy beds,
with minimal stress and extra-special care!
SPRING 2010 ISSUE
LIVESTOCK MATTERS
8