Twenty years of experience with dairy herd health in Ontario

This article expresses observations on planned herd health for dairy cattle, based on experience gained in the Ambulatory Clinic practice of the Ontario Veterinary College. The author and his colleagues, especially Dr. R.A. Curtis, have initiated and delivered a preventive medicine approach to veterinary practice in the teaching program and teaching practice for the past 20 years. In addition, herd health presentations have been made to veterinary associations in every province in Canada and to many breed associations and producer organizations. The Canadian food animal veterinarian and his clients have been informed at meetings and by the media of the need, objectives, methods and benefits of dairy herd health and many veterinary practices now offer programs to their clients. Herd health has become a household word in Canada's dairy practices and dairy farms.A formal herd health program is an important step to achieving total health management; but maximum returns on investment can only be realized after three or four generations of cattle have been reared on the program. In conclusion, herd health practice has been a very satisfying aspect of veterinary medicine and a profitable and valued service for our clients. Maintenance of health involves the application of all knowledge and procedures which veterinarians have to offer.