Stock Handling

Description

Agitated or fearful cows will leave more waste in the yards. Walk cows slowly to shed. Preserve their natural social order while they wait in the yard. Avoid crowding cows in the yard. Avoid dogs and electrified backing gates. Calm handling in yard and minimal interference as they enter the dairy reduces the clean-up. 

Tips on Getting the Best Result

Slow, calm, consistent handling and milking techniques. Reduce fear provoking interactions.

Minimise the need to enter the yard to bring cows onto the platform. 

Pros and Cons

Will reduce stress for the operators, improve working conditions, production and labour productivity. Reduce injuries to cows from slipping on concrete and reduce milking times. 

Issues in Making it Happen

Labour

May require some rethinking in herd management.

Animal Health

Should reduce slips and lameness.

Milk Quality

Should reduce teat contamination.