Keep looking at the weather forecast in order to know how it will affect your work, the cows where you work and the routes you take to go to work. It’s a good routine to have in place.

In the parlor
Cold and dry weather are the enemies of teat skin and teat ends. Teat dips with emollients and humectants are the best choice; however, you need to closely watch the efficacy of these products.

2010 has been another difficult year for the owner of the dairy on which you work. You know there hasn’t been the money available to him or her to pay you more, even though you may really deserve it.

You probably feel trapped by your situation – more work, more hours and not much more money. But you can make a difference and help to change your situation.

“No one in this area can get a decent worker.”

This is a common statement made by many dairy owners and managers in different areas of the country. Although this statement may ring true, it is not usually accurate. Employers have a direct responsibility to adequately interview and hire a reliable and informed worker, even if the potential worker’s primary language is not English.

­Colostrum is important to the success of any calf-raising program. Colostrum provides immunity from the cow so that the calf can fight off infections until its immune system develops. Colostrum also provides vital nutrients and energy that the calf needs to get a good start.

When calves don’t receive colostrum, they are much more likely to get sick or die. However, if colostrum is not collected on time, stored properly and given soon enough, it will not be very helpful, and sometimes can be harmful.

The basic steps of colostrum management can be summarized in 3 words – Clean, strong and fast.

In the last article we discussed emergency action plans, and what was required to write one. In this article we will not stray far from that topic, and discuss emergency first aid.

Each work environment has different hazards and therefore different types of injuries can be expected. Keeping in mind that agriculture is still listed as among the most hazardous professions, it’s pretty obvious that first-aid emergencies can be expected.