Beyond traditional dairy veterinary services: ‘It’s not just about the cows!’

Abstract

It remains a challenge for the role of the dairy veterinarian to move beyond that traditionally held. In larger herds with a high reproductive workload, we are at great risk of becoming specialist technicians. Instead we seek greater involvement, to deliver comprehensive services and to be recognised for them, personally and financially. Given the frequency of our visits, knowledge and analytical skills we are in a unique position to provide inputs that complement advice given by other consultants. Failure to do so has economic consequences for both veterinarian and dairyman. The opportunity for and value of inputs will differ for every client, and we need to remain cognizant of their motivation. This review article shares perspectives, opportunities and tools that might enable moving beyond the traditional role. It starts with a review of available research describing the dynamic between dairyman and veterinarian and how this might impact an animal health production management programme. A description of the experiences of others follows, interspersed by the personal experiences of the author, working with large total mixed ration-fed herds in the United States of America. The following attributes and roles can be associated with a significant economic impact: gatekeeper; conduit; executor; verifier; monitor; facilitator and mediator; trainer, motivator and coach; applied nutritionist; technologist; champion of animal welfare, food safety and judicious antibiotic use; and confidant. Each is elucidated and described in context, revealing a need for continuing education. The nature of the relationship between veterinarian and client will determine the opportunity for and value of each. The veterinarian is in a unique position to become an integral part of the management team and to be fairly compensated as such. The onus rests on the veterinarian to broaden his/her knowledge and skills and to demonstrate their value.

Factors Affecting Quality Milk Productivity in Dairy Farming

“…The respondents also stressed that maintaining cattle health, cleanliness, and disease control are essential for maximizing milk production. They highlighted the challenges of middle-and low-income countries in ensuring cattle health and nutrition (Martin, 2015).…”

Interpretation and visualisation of data from dairy herds

“…Variation is a threat for correct data interpretation as people are eager to use averages for evaluating and comparing group or herd parameters. Averages usually hide those individual animals that need special attention (van der Leek 2015).…”

Artificial insemination of cattle: Description and assessment of a training program for veterinary students

“…Veterinarians are in a unique position to offer advice to dairy producers given their education, analytical skills, and frequency of farm visits (Van der Leek, 2015). Guterbock (2001) and Cannas da Silva et al (2010) suggested that veterinarians can observe and monitor animal-related activities on the farm and provide support to the dairy producer regarding management, reproduction, animal welfare, milk quality, and profitability.…”

“…Guterbock (2001) and Cannas da Silva et al (2010) suggested that veterinarians can observe and monitor animal-related activities on the farm and provide support to the dairy producer regarding management, reproduction, animal welfare, milk quality, and profitability. Van der Leek (2015) suggested that failure to provide support leads to economic consequences for the dairy farm.…”