Extensions to a veterinary health and management program data system for dairy herds

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Dairy Herd Management

Background:

• Existing dairy herd health and management programs require continuous improvement.
• Accurate monitoring of key performance indicators is crucial for herd profitability and welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce novel metrics and data visualization tools for dairy herd health management.
• To enhance the existing veterinary health program with advanced analytical capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Development of a graphical representation for mean milk production per cow per day.
• Implementation of historical and current records for herd reproductive states.
• Introduction of a standardized index for clinical mastitis.
• Creation of an index to quantify nutritional anestrus in dairy herds.
• Addition of specific criteria for identifying cows needing examination in seasonally-calving herds based on estrus recording.

Main Results:

• The enhanced program provides a comprehensive overview of herd health and productivity.
• New indices offer objective measures for clinical mastitis and nutritional anestrus.
• Improved identification of cows for breeding management, particularly in seasonal calving systems.

Conclusions:

• The updated program offers advanced tools for dairy herd health and management.
• These enhancements facilitate proactive health interventions and optimize reproductive efficiency.
• The system supports data-driven decision-making for improved dairy farm performance.