Prioritizing Cow Comfort for Stress-Free Dry-Off
Today’s dry-off practices look very different from those in the past, as more cows are entering the dry period at higher production levels. While this reflects progress, it also introduces new challenges related to cow comfort and mastitis risk.
“It’s time to ask ourselves, ‘What can we do better at dry-off?’” said Linda Tikofsky, DVM, Boehringer Ingelheim. “We’re more attuned to animal well-being today, and that’s reshaping our approach.”
Dr. Tikofsky works with dairies nationwide and has observed consistent strategies on farms achieving the best results. Here are four key practices:
Making cow comfort a priority
High-producing cows can experience discomfort during dry-off, leak milk, and have a greater risk of mastitis post-calving. “Cows dried off while giving large amounts of milk may experience serious discomfort,” Tikofsky explained.
Progressive producers like Ben Smith of Cool Lawn Farm, Virginia, are improving dry cow facilities, enhancing cooling, and adjusting production-reduction protocols. “Cow comfort is the most important part of dry-off,” Smith said. “Antibiotics and treatments can help, but I don’t think any of it matters if you don’t make cow comfort a priority.”
Collaborative decision-making
Farms now rely on teams of specialists and outside consultants to enhance dry-off success. Tikofsky noted, “The farms I see doing the best job are collaborating with their veterinarian to review records, monitor disease incidences and tweak dry-off protocols.” At Larson Acres, Wisconsin, herd manager Jim Trustem emphasized, “We select products if they are recommended by our veterinarian. We go to our vet for the final answer and ask, ‘Is this worth doing?’ and our vet says, ‘Yes.’”
Monitoring key metrics
Successful dry-off is data-driven. Tikofsky recommends tracking mastitis incidence, somatic cell counts (SCC), lying time, and rumination. “Start by looking at your data to see where you are now and where you want to go,” she said. Producers like Corinne Banker of Blue Hill Farm, New York, have improved dry-off protocols using ear tag data and BOVIKALC DRY boluses.
Embracing continuous improvement
Producers are adopting new tools and strategies to meet the demands of high-producing herds. Trustem stated, “We tried changing their diet, but we thought there might be a better option out there.” The use of acidogenic boluses, along with collaborative strategies, reflects a focus on ongoing improvement.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-digitalvision