Why Dry-Off Sets Up Next Season’s Dairy Performance and Milk Production
Dry-off feels like a break. For the cow, it's anything but.
To get a real-world view of how the season is tracking, animal health company Zoetis spoke with Kellie Grieve, large animal technician at Rangiora Vet Centre, who is currently in the thick of it.
While cow dry-off has not fully ramped up yet, heifer teat sealing is well underway.
"We have sealed just over 5,000 heifers so far, and it has been going really well," says Kellie Grieve.
"Conditions have been relatively dry, so the heifers have been clean and easy to work with. They are in great body condition too, which makes a difference."
It has been a smooth start so far, but she is clear that this is just the beginning.
As Workload Builds, Pressure Follows
Early season energy does not last.
"At the start, you are mainly focused on heifer teat sealing and everyone is fresh," she explains.
"As we move further into May and June, everything starts to stack up. We are doing body condition scoring, udder health checks, drying off herds, and milk sampling as well."
That increase is workload brings a shift in focus. "For us, it becomes about being efficient while still making sure we are getting the job done to a high standard and not cutting corners."
Where Things Can Start To Slip
It is not usually knowledge that causes issues mid-season. It is fatigue.
"When time pressure builds and people get tired, that is when hygiene can slip," Grieve says.
"Things like properly cleaning the teat end or washing and drying hands between animals can get rushed."
Difficult animals can also test consistency. "If you have a really kicky heifer and you are already exhausted, there can be a tendency to rush rather than taking the time to ask for help."
Importantly, this is not limited to less experienced technicians. "Even experienced technicians can become complacent as workloads increase. That is why consistency across the whole team is so important."
The Fundamentals Still Make The Biggest Difference
Despite the pressure, the fundamentals have not changed.
"The biggest difference comes down to getting the basics right and being consistent with them," says Grieve.
Hygiene remains one of the most important factors. "Making sure cleaning protocols are followed and not cutting corners when things get busy."
Technique Also Plays A Key Role
"That includes wearing gloves and sleeves, keeping equipment clean, and taking the time with each animal to make sure it is done properly."
For cow dry-off, it does not stop at administration.
"Aftercare is also very important. That includes having the dry-off diet sorted with the primary vet, returning cows to clean pastures, and avoiding unnecessary movement for at least a week. They also need to be monitored closely in the first 24 to 48 hours."
Consistency Is A Team Effort
Team culture plays a big role in maintaining standards.
"We work closely together, so communication makes a big difference," Grieve explains.
"If you notice someone doing something slightly off, a quick reminder is often all it takes."
That applies across all experience levels. "Even experienced technicians can benefit from a reminder now and then."
Managing fatigue is just as important.
"Some days can be a slog. Having a good team spirit, helping each other out, and staying positive can make a big difference," she says.
One Thing Not To Compromise On
If there is one takeaway for the rest of the season, Grieve is clear.
"Hygiene. Take your time." Even in less-than-ideal situations. "If you have a difficult animal, do not rush it. Ask for help. It is not worth cutting corners."
Because at this stage of the season, those small decisions repeated every day are what ultimately show up at calving.
Article by Zoetis
