Dairy Herd Health Program

Abstract

The future of the veterinarian in the dairy industry will depend on the profession's ability to adapt to the changing needs of the industry and the computer will play a central role in the record-keeping system essential to this industry. We as veterinarians must be prepared to meet this challenge or we will be replaced by others outside the profession who will attempt to supply the demands of the industry. The success or failure of a dairy health program depends on several factors which include good records as well as other ingredients stated in this paper. A veterinarian must have the client's confidence, an educated client, an economic need and adequate veterinary manpower and skills in order to have a viable health program. When all of these ingredients are present, the result is a satisfied dairy client and a good economic return for the time investment by the veterinarian.