Implementation and follow-up of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) programs in New York dairy herds

Authors

  • Mark J. Thomas Dairy Health & Management Services, LLC 6014 Number Four Rd. Lowville, NY 13367
  • Daryl V. Nydam Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Upper Tower Rd, Ithaca, NY 14853
  • G.E. Granados Dairy Health & Management Services, LLC 6014 Number Four Rd. Lowville, NY 13367
  • Peter G. Ostrum Dairy Health & Management Services, LLC 6014 Number Four Rd. Lowville, NY 13367

Keywords:

selective dry cow therapy, antimicrobial use, protocol development

Abstract

Selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) is a practical method to reduce both costs and antimicrobial use on the dairy without compromising udder health in the following lactation when implemented well in the correct herds. The objective of the project was to implement SDCT programs in commercial dairy farms in New York State and monitor response. Selected farms were enrolled in a formal program that included protocol development, implementation of automation in on-farm software (DairyComp 305), employee training on proper dry-off techniques, and data evaluation to track the milk quality and udder health response to the new protocol.

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Published

2021-10-09

Issue

Section

Research Summaries