UNITED KINGDOM-MASTITUS.
Mastitis prevention
essential in current climate
It is estimated that mastitis costs Northern Ireland dairy farmers £14 million annually. Similar to many other animal diseases, prevention is always more cost effective than control.
It was with this in mind that Stephen Johnston of Ballinamallard joined with 25 other local farmers on the Animal Health Challenge. The group was facilitated by Alan Warnock, a CAFRE Dairy Development Adviser, and local County Fermanagh veterinary surgeon, Gordon Grey.
As part of this programme farmers were able to discuss aspects of mastitis prevention and control on farm and the implications of housing layout, calving facilities and milking parlour routine and maintenance.
Stephen thoroughly enjoyed the course. As a dairy farmer he values the information he gained about the causes of common cow diseases and the management practices that can help to reduce their incidence. Keeping animal health a high priority and spending time and effort in preventing disease will help reduce costs on the modern dairy farm.
In addition to the presentations, Stephen found there was useful discussion within the group by the members about their own experiences.
Stephen was particularly interested in the section of the programme which dealt with mastitis control.
As a result, he now plans to change the teat liners in his milking parlour every four months when they have carried out the recommended 2,500 milkings.
This simple action will help ensure high milk quality which will ultimately add value to the dairy business.
In a time of financial pressure the old adage of looking after the pennies is very appropriate!
