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May 9 2016
The newest book from the Hoard's Dairyman bookstore sheds light on prevention, management, and treatment options for limiting antibiotic use. Antibiotics have been an important part of dairy animal welfare...
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May 6 2016
Each year new knowledge and skills were gained. So, how do teams that win, well . . . win? I asked one of those teams, "Why did you win?"
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May 5 2016
Regular maintenance helps us maintain our freestall barn in top working condition. We moved from a pasture based operation to our conventional freestall barn in 2009. At that time, a dairyman friend of...
May 4 2016
It doesn't come naturally to most people, but delegation is essential to effective team leadership. Most of us, at some point in our lives, will find ourselves in a leadership position. While many dairy...
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May 3 2016
If I ever lose my sense of wonder about a newborn calf or the first time we turn out our herd to graze in spring, then it's time for me to change occupations. Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens....
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May 2 2016
Research indicates multiple rations save money and resources, but it depends on the farm. No doubt efficiencies and economics are top of mind for dairy producers. This is not a new situation. Dairy producers...
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April 29 2016
Mental health issues are more prevalent in nonmeat eaters. Vegetarians are crazy! That might be the sentiment of those who relish a succulent steak and cannot fathom eliminating beef, lamb, pork, or poultry...
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April 28 2016
Spring can bring a wide array of weather conditions . . . prepare now so you're ready if severe storms hit. Spring is in the air, but with it can come some not so pleasant weather. While we are happy...
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April 27 2016
For years, California dairy and livestock farmers have grazed their cattle in Point Reyes National Seashore Park, but that partnership may soon come to an end. By Abby Bauer, Hoard's Dairyman Associate...
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April 26 2016
A recent interview in The Washington Post with the renowned animal welfare specialist leaves many in dairy circles with unanswered questions. With all due respect to Temple Grandin, and the research she...
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April 25 2016
Saturday is World Veterinary Day and our opportunity to stop and say thanks to an integral part of the farm team - veterinarians. "Do you know what that is?" This was the prompt that started many a conversation...
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April 22 2016
When it comes to controlling lameness, the most effective footbath immerses each hoof more than once. Is lameness an issue in your herd? If so, you are not alone. According to Nigel Cook, D.V.M., from...
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April 21 2016
From high school to college to continuing education opportunities, we must continue to grow and develop our talents. In order that I may inspire some other youth, I've decided to share how my education...
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April 20 2016
Looking back, the intense fat-related studies of the 1960s and 1970s did not prove that removing saturated fats and replacing them with vegetable oils made people healthier. That was the hope of the research...
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April 19 2016
Our little boy's passion made me realize the weight we carry as advocates and educators of our industry. Our local preschool class did a fun project this year where all the kids picked a topic and did...
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April 18 2016
Tightly correlated, managing SCC is an important step in limiting antibiotic use. Mastitis remains the most prevalent health problem in dairy herds according to the USDA's Dairy 2014, and it's not one...
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April 15 2016
Ration strategies for groups of dairy cows summarized. Maximize production, but don't waste resources. That sums up the art and science of formulating rations for milking groups. The challenge is that...
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April 14 2016
Science shows that "farm kids" are less likely to have allergies, but what about those of us who do? Science has proven over the years that children who grow up on dairy farms run a lower risk of developing...
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April 13 2016
The Peterson Farm Bros. put their agriculture advocacy efforts to music in a string of parody videos. With one YouTube video, the Peterson Farm Bros. became an overnight sensation. Before bursting into...
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April 12 2016
We can change our attitudes by changing our thoughts. Without a doubt, I am an optimistic person. My glass isn't just half-full - it's overflowing. I think dairy farmers, in general, are optimistic people....