Close attention to dry cow period is key to success

Researchers and successful dairy farmers now regard the nutrition and management of dry cows more important — and more difficult — than milking cows.

Many successful farmers are now putting a lot of effort into effective management of their dry cows. Their aim is to have cows drying off in the same condition (score 3-3.25) as they will calve down.

Adequate energy, minerals and trace elements are very important. Specific feeding and management systems for the dry cow period have been developed by companies with, for example, Dairygold Co-op, Keenans, Dairymaster, Alltech and other companies combining to provide successful dry cow feeding systems which ensure each cow gets her correct requirements.