Dry Treatment in Large Scale, Dry Lot Operations

Abstract

A mastitis control program must ultimately relate to maximizing profit; therefore, maximum profit is the standard by which we should orient our decisions. Medical decisions and procedures based on medical principles, even if sound in themselves, that do not ultimately contribute to maximizing profit must be considered abstract and unjustifiable. Herd health exists for the sole purpose of maximizing profit. The purpose of dry treatment is twofold: 1. to eradicate existing infections, and 2. to provide a protective level of antibiotic during the first two weeks of the dry period, an interval of increased susceptibility to new infections.