Archive for improving dairy herd health

Is Your Dairy Farm Bleeding Cash Due to Stillbirths?

Is your dairy farm losing money because of stillbirths? Uncover the hidden costs and learn how to safeguard your profits in our expert guide. Read on to find out more.

Are stillbirths stealthily depleting your dairy farm’s resources and compromising your livelihood? You are not alone. Many dairy producers need help with the terrible reality of losing calves before they can survive. This problem is critical to your farm’s production and significantly impacts your bottom line. “Losing a calf at birth is like losing a future dairy cow and the potential it holds for the herd’s performance and profitability.” Each lost calf represents a considerable loss in milk supply, genetic development, and expenditure in care and feeding. Ignoring this problem means that avoidable losses will continue to affect your farm year after year. However, identifying and treating stillbirths may result in significant improvements and favorable outcomes.

The Emotional and Operational Burden of Stillbirths in Dairy Farming

The emotional toll of coping with stillbirths is significant. Imagine investing time, effort, and money into a pregnant cow, only to be met with the heartbreaking disappointment of stillbirth. This is not just a financial loss but an emotional one as well. Your bond with your herd makes each death terrible, leaving you wondering, “What could I have done differently?” This ongoing emotional pressure may result in burnout, making it even more challenging to retain the devotion and passion required to manage a successful dairy farm.

It’s akin to losing a loved one. You’ve cared for this animal, watched it throughout its pregnancy, and hoped for a new life. When that hope is shattered, it feels like a small piece of your farm’s soul has vanished. This sense of loss never truly fades; it lingers, adding emotional weight to an already stressful work.

Aside from the emotional burden, an operational component is often addressed. Managing stillbirths requires considerable labor. Farmers must adequately dispose of the stillborn calf, which may require biohazard precautions and additional expenditures. The injured cow also needs particular attention, often necessitating medical treatment to avoid infections or consequences. This adds another layer of responsibilities to a busy schedule, diverting time and resources from other critical farm activities and aggravating the cost impact.

Stillbirths Don’t Just Take an Emotional Toll—They Also Have Significant Financial Repercussions for Your Dairy Farm 

CategoryCostDescription
Loss of Replacement Calves$1000 per calfImmediate loss of potential herd replacements.
Increased Veterinary Costs$200 per eventAdditional medical attention is needed for both the dam and unsuccessful birthing process.
Labor Costs$150 per eventMan-hours spent on monitoring and managing calving difficulties.
Compromised Animal WelfareVariedLong-term health issues lead to reduced productivity.
Early Culling$1,500 per cowPremature removal of cows from the herd due to health or fertility issues.
Total Annual Loss$125.3 million (US)The cumulative financial impact of stillbirths in the dairy industry. (source)

Stillbirths have more than simply an emotional impact on your dairy farm; they also have substantial financial consequences, some of which are not immediately apparent. Let us break it down.

First, there are immediate expenses. Each stillborn calf represents a missed chance to market the animal. Depending on the breed and market worth, this may cost several hundred dollars per calf, ranging from $500 to $1200. This loss is quickly felt, although it is just a portion of the financial load.

Now, examine the indirect expenses. When a calf is stillborn, the mother cow often faces trauma and health problems, which may contribute to decreased milk supply. Research indicates that cows that experience stillbirths can see a reduction in their milk output, averaging about 544 kg per cow following such events. 

There’s also the issue of genetic loss. Each stillborn calf represents the loss of potentially beneficial genetic features, such as higher milk output, illness resistance, or fertility. This loss may significantly impede breeding efforts, reducing your herd’s long-term production and profitability. In simpler terms, it’s like losing the chance to have a future star player in your team, which could have significantly improved your team’s performance.

“Stillbirths are often underestimated in their impact,” says Ryne Braun, Ever.Ag’s product expert and dairy farm enterprise leader. “Every stillbirth isn’t just a lost calf; it represents a lost opportunity for future milk production, not to mention the toll it takes on the health and well-being of the mother cow.” “In smaller herds, the effect of a single stillbirth is exacerbated. “These farms rely heavily on each calf for herd replacement and milk production,” says Braun. “The associated costs, including veterinary care and additional labor, can quickly add up, creating a significant financial burden.”

While direct costs are easily quantifiable, indirect costs build over time and are sometimes undetected. These hidden expenditures may significantly impact your bottom line, making stillbirths a critical problem to address.

Identifying a Stillbirth Issue on Your Dairy Farm: A Responsibility and a NecessitySo, how can you know if your dairy farm has stillbirths? The first step is to determine your stillbirth rate. Typically, dairy farms have a miscarriage incidence of 5-10%. If your farm falls within or surpasses this range, there may be an issue to fix.

To determine your stillbirth rate, keep note of the number of stillbirths and total calvings over a specific period, such as a year. The formula is easy.

Stillbirth Rate (%) = (Number of Stillbirths/Total Number of Calvings) times 100.

For example, if you had 50 stillbirths from 1000 calvings in a year, your stillbirth rate would be:

(50 / 1000) x 100 = 5%

Now that you know how to calculate it, keep a watch on the data; if your stillbirth rate exceeds 9%, you have a severe problem. For an average herd of 250 cows, if you have more than 20 stillbirths each year, you should be taking action.

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Understanding the Causes of Stillbirths on Your Dairy Farm 

It’s crucial to understand what’s causing stillbirths on your dairy farm. Let’s break down some common causes: 

Maternal Health and Conditions: 

  • Dystocia (Difficult Calving): Dystocia is a significant cause of stillbirths. This might be due to the calf’s size, position at delivery, or the cow’s age or health. First-lactation heifers are especially vulnerable, with stillbirth rates much more significant than in older cows. According to the Journal of Dairy Science, 10-15% of calvings in dairy herds are categorized as Difficult Calvings.
  • Twin Births: Stillbirth is far more common in cows that give birth to twins. This is often related to problems from delivering several calves. Dairy cattle have an average twin rate of 5-10%—source: Journal of Dairy Science.
  • Hypocalcemia: Cows with low calcium levels during parturition have a higher chance of stillbirth. This syndrome may impair muscular function and cause difficulty with calving. Clinical hypocalcemia affects around 5–7% of dairy cows—source: The Journal of Dairy Science, 2017.

Calving Management: 

  • Calving Supervision: Proper calving supervision can drastically decrease stillbirth rates. Interventions during problematic calvings are critical since many farm personnel may lack experience in detecting and reacting to calving issues.
  • Timing of Movement: Moving cows too close to their calving date might cause issues. To reduce danger, cows should be allowed to enter into entire labor.

Nutritional Factors: 

  • Malnutrition: Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy may cause fetal growth difficulties, culminating in stillbirths. Cows must be fed a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
  • Fetal Size and Health: Smaller or malnourished fetuses are more likely to die in the womb. The cow’s nutritional state directly influences the fetus’s health and viability.

Genetic Factors: 

  • Breeding Selection: Genetic propensity influences stillbirth rates. Selecting sires with favorable qualities for calving ease may help lower the number of stillbirths.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the emotional and financial toll of stillbirths on your dairy farm is critical. The loss impacts not only your financial line but also the general health of your herd and the morale of the farm community. You may proactively prevent these terrible occurrences by recognizing problems early on and understanding their root causes. Knowledge of your stillbirth rate is more than just statistics; it’s a critical tool for increasing farm productivity and profitability.

Don’t let stillbirths quietly undermine your farm’s prosperity. Take the first step toward healthier calves and a thriving dairy farm.

Download our Dairy Farmers Guide to Stress-Free Calvings

The Dairy Farmer’s Guide to Stress-Free Calvings is a valuable resource for dairy farmers seeking to simplify the calving process and reduce stress. It also offers practical tips for both new and experienced farmers and insights into improving productivity and longevity. It provides practical strategies for stress-free calvings, identifies and addresses common issues, and provides the latest practices in herd management and welfare. This guide will help reduce stillbirths, increase easy calvings, and minimize early exits. Don’t wait. Download this invaluable guide today!

The Dairy Farmer's Guide to Stress-Free Calvings
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Key Takeaways:

  • Stillbirths in dairy farming cause both emotional distress and operational challenges for farmers.
  • The financial impact of stillbirths includes veterinary costs, lost productivity, and reduced profitability.
  • Understanding the causes of stillbirths, such as genetics and environmental factors, can help prevent them.
  • Implementing best practices in herd management can mitigate the risks and financial burden of stillbirths.
  • Comprehensive strategies are essential for addressing both the emotional and economic repercussions associated with stillbirths on dairy farms.

Summary:

Have you ever paused to consider how much stillbirths might be costing your dairy farm? Stillbirths are an unfortunate reality in dairy farming, but their frequency and financial impact often go unnoticed until it’s too late. These losses come not only from the emotional strain they place on farm families but also from significant operational costs that can undermine the profitability of your farm. Did you know that the average stillbirth can cost around $1,000 in direct expenses and even more when you account for lost future earnings? If you’re a dairy farmer struggling with this issue, keep reading—we’ll dive into the hidden costs of stillbirths, explore their causes, and discuss what you can do to mitigate these heart-wrenching and costly events. Stillbirths are a significant issue, affecting the resources and livelihoods of dairy producers. Losing a calf at birth is like losing a future dairy cow, resulting in significant losses in milk supply, genetic development, and care and feeding expenditure. Identifying and treating stillbirths can lead to improvements and favorable outcomes. Coping with stillbirths is not only financial but also emotional, as the bond with the herd makes each death terrible. This emotional pressure may result in burnout, making it difficult to maintain the devotion and passion required to manage a successful dairy farm. Managing stillbirths requires considerable labor, biohazard precautions, and additional expenditures. They also have substantial financial consequences, including missed market opportunities and indirect expenses like trauma and health problems for the mother cow.

Learn more:

South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024

Date: Friday, September 20th 2024
Judge: Steve Fraser, ON

c

GLENHOLME CLEAR APPEAL
Grand Champion
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

GLENHOLME CLEAR APPEAL
Grand Champion
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

c

BRIDON L CHILL
Intermediate Champion
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

BRIDON L CHILL
Intermediate Champion
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

c

PAULLYN GETAWAY BRINA
Junior Champion
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
JEFF STEPHENS & CRANHOLME, ON

PAULLYN GETAWAY BRINA
Junior Champion
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
JEFF STEPHENS & CRANHOLME, ON

Junior Calf

Born after March 1st, 2024 

EDGELEA GLENHOLME VICTORIOUS VALKYRIE
1st place Junior Calf 
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
CAROL RUTA & JOEL BAGG, ON
EDGELEA GLENHOLME VICTORIOUS VALKYRIE 1st place Junior Calf South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024 CAROL RUTA & JOEL BAGG, ON

  1. EDGELEA GLENHOLME VICTORIOUS VALKYRIE, JECANF14221009
    Bred & Owned
    CAROL RUTA & JOEL BAGG, ON
  2. BRIDON WEBCAM ALLIE, JECANF14769213
    1ST 4H
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  3. KAYMANOR DTB BELLINI ET, JECANF14869820
    EAST RIVER HOLSTEINS & PARALLEL GENETICS, ON
  4. VC-LANGELANDS V TOODLE-LOO, JECANF14759850
    EMI LANGE, ON
  5. LOTHMANN VIC LYNDY, JECANF15047122
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  6. LOTHMANN VIC LAKITA, JECANF15047123
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  7. MAPLE LEAF FRANK KARAMEL, JECANF14950742
    JENNIFER PEART & CHARLIE ANDERSON, JERSEYVILLE, ON
  8. MAPLE LEAF GETAWAY CREAM PUFF, JECANF14950745
    2ND 4H
    JENNIFER PEART & CHARLIE ANDERSON, JERSEYVILLE, ON

Intermediate Calf

Born December 1st, 2023 to February 29th, 2024 

WILLOW CREEK REGAL GWENDOLYN
1st place Intermediate  Calf 
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
WILLOW CREEK JERSEYS, HAGERSVILLE, ON

  1. WILLOW CREEK REGAL GWENDOLYN, JECANF14897952
    Bred & Owned
    WILLOW CREEK JERSEYS, HAGERSVILLE, ON
  2. LOTHMANN VICTORIOUS LENA, JECANF14710275
    1ST 4H
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  3. BRIDON SHINED UP GRAVY, JECANF14769199
    2ND 4H
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  4. PLEASANT NOOK CORPORAL MAJOR MISCHIEF, JECANF14649304
    3RD 4H
    PLEASANT NOOK JERSEYS, AYR, ON
  5. GLENHOLME FALLEN ANGEL, JECANF14602448
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON
  6. AVONLEA VIDEO ATHENA, JECANF14710277
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  7. BOBMUR CHIP AGGIE, JECANF14652035
    BOBMUR FARMS, LISTOWEL, ON
  8. WILLOW CREEK GETAWAY GRACE, JECANF14897954
    WILLOW CREEK JERSEYS, HAGERSVILLE, ON
  9. KEVETTA KIDROCK VERITY ET -JE840F 3278801656-, JE840F3278801656
    4TH 4H
    CAMERON GARCIA/PLUM VALLEY/DONOVAN MARTIN, ON
  10. MAPLE LEAF VICTORIOUS MIRABEL, JECANF14950736
    5TH 4H
    JENNIFER PEART & CHARLIE ANDERSON, JERSEYVILLE, ON

Senior Calf

Born September 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2023 

  1. PAULLYN GETAWAY BRINA, JECANF14733821
    1ST 4H
    Junior Champion
    JEFF STEPHENS & CRANHOLME, ON
  2. WOODMOHR REV DIANNA ET, JEUSAF175036015
    2ND 4H
    Junior Champion – Reserve
    DANI KARN, WOOSTOCK, ON
  3. GLENHOLME FRANK’S TEMPERAMENT, JECANF14602443
    Bred & Owned
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON
  4. BOBMUR CHIP SANGRIA, JECANF14652031
    BOBMUR FARMS, LISTOWEL, ON
  5. ALEXVALE CC GOGO GIZMO, JECANF14668857
    JAMES ALEXANDER/GRACE BECKETT/BECKRIDGE HOLSTEINS, ON
  6. PARALLEL VIDEO PRIMADONNA, JECANF14954037
    PARALLEL/DANDYLAND HOLSTEINS/ALLYSON JANSE, ON
  7. WILLOW CREEK GENTRY SIMS, JECANF14897950
    WILLOW CREEK JERSEYS, HAGERSVILLE, ON
  8. KASH-IN JYRD KICK IT UP A KNOTCH-ET, JE840F3275974752
    3RD 4H
    Rilee Eby, Ayr, ON
  9. EMERHILL CHOC VALENTINA ET, JECANF14492210
    ALAND JERSEYS & DEREK METZGER, ON
  10. GLENHOLME VIDEO ENDORSEMENT, JECANF14602445
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

Summer Yearling

Born June 1st, 2023 to August 31st, 2023 

GLENHOLME NUANCE TEXAS-WES
1st place Summer Yearling
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

GLENHOLME NUANCE TEXAS-WES
1st place Summer Yearling
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

  1. GLENHOLME NUANCE TEXAS-WES, JECANF14602422
    Bred & Owned
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON
  2. LOTHMANN VIC LARISSA, JECANF14710264
    1ST 4H
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  3. BOBMUR CHIP ALLY, JECANF14652030
    BOBMUR FARMS, LISTOWEL, ON
  4. BRIDON ACC EXPERT ET, JECANF14769163
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  5. BRIDON ACC ELAINE ET, JECANF14769164
    2ND 4H
    BRIDGEVIEW FARM, BRANTFORD, ON
  6. ALTONA LEA CHOCOLATECHIP MINT, JECANF14374400
    ALTONA LEA FARMS, ON
  7. PLEASANT NOOK CORPORAL JUSTICE, JECANF14649294
    PLEASANT NOOK JERSEYS, AYR, ON
  8. MAPLE LEAF Machine CINNABUN, JECANF14777543
    JENNIFER PEART & CHARLIE ANDERSON, JERSEYVILLE, ON

Junior Yearling

Born March 1st, 2023 to May 31st, 2023 

  1. BRIDON ACC ELIMINATE ET, JECANF14179431
    Bred & Owned
    1ST 4H
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  2. R-A COLTON VIGARO ET, JECANF14703103
    RIVERDOWN/ALLARWAY, ON
  3. LEACHLAND IRISH CREAM K, JECANF14378052
    1ST 4H
    2ND 4H
    BECKRIDGE HOLSTEINS, ON
  4. DU SILLON BOOM BOMBAY ET, JECANF121188049
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON

Intermediate Yearling

Born December 1st, 2022 to February 28th, 2023 

KARNELLE VICTORIOUS CHEETO
1st place Spring Yearling
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
DANI KARN, WOOSTOCK, ON

KARNELLE VICTORIOUS CHEETO
1st place Spring Yearling
South Western Championship Jersey Show 2024
DANI KARN, WOOSTOCK, ON

  1. KARNELLE VICTORIOUS CHEETO, JECANF14369020
    Bred & Owned
    DANI KARN, WOOSTOCK, ON

Uncalved Senior Yearling

Born September 1st, 2022 to November 30th, 2022 

  1. KAYMANOR CHOCOCHIP MVP JUDGE ET, JECANF14207308
    RIVERDOWN, ALLARWAY & SUNNY TERRACE, ON
  2. ALEXVALE JORDAN GOGO GADGET, JECANF14668855
    Bred & Owned
    GRACE BECKETT, ALEXVALE FARMS AND BECKRIDGE, ON

Junior Herd

A group of 3 animals bred by one breeder. Each animal in the group must have been exhibited in the appropriate age class for single animals

  1. Bridon, BRIDON JR
    Bridon Farms, Paris, ON
  2. Glenholme, GLENHOLME JR
    Ruta – Mellow, Tavistock, ON
  3. Bobmur Farms, BOBMUR FARMS JR
    Bobmur Farms, Listowel, ON
  4. LOTHMAN JR
    Markus Lothmann, East Garafraxa, ON
  5. Maple Leaf Jerseys, MAPLE LEAF JERSEYS J
    Charlie Anderson, Jerseyville, ON

Milking Senior Yearling

Born September 1st, 2022 to November 30th, 2022 

  1. RIVIEW VICTORIOUS SOPHDAWG ET, JECANF14593929
    VERENAHOLME & BRENT SAYLES, ON
  2. GLENHOLME VANITY FAIR TW, JECANF14602395
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON
  3. GALAXY CHOCOLATIER JUNIPER, JECANF14566389
    ALEX & ANGELA DOLSON, ROCKWOOD, ON

Summer 2 Year Old

Born June 1st, 2022 to August 31st, 2022 in milk or dry

BRIDON L CHILL
1st place Summer Two Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

See more at https://www.thebullvine.com/show-reports/south-western-championship-jersey-show-2024/

BRIDON L CHILL
1st place Summer Two Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

  1. BRIDON L CHILL, JECANF14179394
    Intermediate Champion & Reserve
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  2. GLENHOLME VIDEO AUTHORITY, JECANF13991151
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON
  3. LOTHMANN VICTORIOUS OLIVIA, JECANF14350382
    MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN, EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  4. MAKER CHOCLATIER MARSHMALLOW, JECANF14478258
    OWEN ELGERSMA, CALEDONIA, ON

Junior 2 Year Old

Born March 1st, 2022 to May 31st, 2022 in milk or dry

CHARLYN NUANCE EMPRESS
1st place Junior Two Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

CHARLYN NUANCE EMPRESS
1st place Junior Two Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

  1. CHARLYN NUANCE EMPRESS, JECANF14376031
    4-H Champion and Reserve Champion Showperson – Reserve
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  2. KASH-IN VIP KEISHA ET -JE840F 3225277256-, JE840F3225277256
    DEREK KARN, WOODSTOCK, ON

4 Year Old

Born September 1st, 2019 to August 31st, 2020 in milk or dry

BRIDON CHROME GUMMY
1st place Four Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

BRIDON CHROME GUMMY
1st place Four Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

  1. BRIDON CHROME GUMMY, JECANF13571566
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

5 Year Old

Born September 1st, 2018 to August 31st, 2019 in milk or dry

BRIDON JOY SUNSET
1st place Five Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

BRIDON JOY SUNSET
1st place Five Year Old
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

  1. BRIDON JOY SUNSET, JECANF13088612
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  2. BRIDON V SNICKERS, JECANF13088598
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON
  3. BRIDON BARCELONA EXTRA, JECANF13088618
    BRIDON FARMS INC, PARIS, ON

Mature Cow

Born before September 1st, 2018 in milk or dry

GLENHOLME CLEAR APPEAL
1st place Mature Cow
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

GLENHOLME CLEAR APPEAL
1st place Mature Cow
South Western Ontario Championship Jersey Show 2024
GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

  1. GLENHOLME CLEAR APPEAL, JECANF12667125
    GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC., TAVISTOCK, ON

Junior Exhibitor

  1. MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN
    EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  2. BRIDON FARMS INC
    PARIS, ON
  3. GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC.
    TAVISTOCK, ON

Junior Breeder

  1. BRIDON FARMS INC (BRIDON)
    PARIS, ON
  2. MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN (LOTHMANN)
    EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  3. GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC. (GLENHOLME)
    TAVISTOCK, ON

Junior Premier Sire

  1. AVONLEA CHOCOCHIP ET
  2. RIVER VALLEY VICTORIOUS-ET -JE840M 3126479524-
  3. MM VICTORIOUS FRANK ET -JE840M 3201335580-

Premier Exhibitor

  1. BRIDON FARMS INC
    PARIS, ON
  2. GLENHOLME JERSEYS INC.
    TAVISTOCK, ON
  3. MARKUS & BRENDA LOTHMANN
    EAST GARAFRAXA, ON
  4. VERENAHOLME & BRENT SAYLES
    ON
  5. BOBMUR FARMS
    LISTOWEL, ON
  6. DANI KARN
    WOOSTOCK, ON
  7. DEREK KARN
    WOODSTOCK, ON
  8. WILLOW CREEK JERSEYS
    HAGERSVILLE, ON

How The World’s Top Dairy Diseases Are Draining Dairy Farmers’ Wallets of $65 Billion Annually

Find out how dairy diseases are silently draining billions from farms worldwide. Could your farm be losing money without you knowing? Read on.

Summary: Ever wondered which dairy diseases are costing you the most? Dr. Philip Rasmussen and his international team of researchers have uncovered startling truths about the financial drain caused by the top 12 dairy diseases worldwide. Their study, soon to be published in the Journal of Dairy Science, reveals that these ailments collectively cost the global dairy industry around $65 billion annually. By examining the impact on milk production, fertility, and culling, the team offers financial insights that could help dairy farmers take actionable steps to mitigate these losses. With subclinical ketosis at the top, costing $18 billion annually, and clinical mastitis close behind at $13 billion, regional disparities reveal tailored approaches are needed – Oceania faces subclinical ketosis as 35% of losses, while Europe battles clinical mastitis at 25%. Countries like Nigeria experience modest losses of $72 per cow, while South Korea reaches a staggering $1,900 per cow. India’s annual losses lead at $12 billion, followed by the U.S. at $8 billion, and China at $5 billion, emphasizing the vital need for comprehensive dairy disease management for global food security and sustainability.

  • Top 12 dairy diseases collectively cost the global dairy industry around $65 billion annually.
  • Subclinical ketosis is the costliest, with annual losses of $18 billion, followed by clinical mastitis at $13 billion.
  • The study evaluates the financial impact based on milk production, fertility, and culling without including treatment costs.
  • Regional disparities highlight the need for tailored approaches, such as Oceania’s 35% loss from subclinical ketosis versus Europe’s 25% from clinical mastitis.
  • Per cow losses range from $72 in Nigeria to $1,900 in South Korea, indicating a significant regional variation.
  • India faces the highest annual losses at $12 billion, followed by the United States ($8 billion) and China ($5 billion).
  • Improving dairy disease management is crucial for global food security and sustainability.
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Did you realize that dairy ailments cost the world’s agriculture industry $65 billion annually? That’s correct—an outrageous amount that might gradually destroy your profits without your knowledge. But which illnesses are the primary culprits? So, what can you do about them? This article delves into Dr. Philip Rasmussen’s groundbreaking study, published in the Journal of Dairy Science, on the top 12 dairy ailments worldwide. This study was carried out by researchers from Denmark, Canada, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom to establish the actual cost of these disorders in terms of milk production, fertility, and culling. Understanding these hidden costs is crucial for dairy farmers looking to maintain profitability and improve herd health. But here’s the good news-by Addressing these dairy diseases and improving animal health, we can significantly enhance the global efficiency of dairy production while reducing its environmental impact. Stay tuned as we investigate these financial commitments and provide insights into how different countries are affected. By the end, you’ll be better equipped to address these challenges head-on and ensure your farm’s economic viability.

Top 12 Dairy Diseases Draining Your Farm’s Finances 

Dr. Philip Rasmussen’s analysis identified the top 12 dairy illnesses with substantial economic consequences for the dairy sector globally.  Ranked by their annual financial toll, they are:

  1. Subclinical ketosis: $18 billion
  2. A metabolic condition develops when energy needs exceed energy intake, causing ketone bodies to accumulate in the bloodstream. Since there are no apparent indicators, this condition must often be recognized.
  3. Clinical mastitis: $13 billion
  4. A mammary gland infection that produces inflammation is characterized by swelling, redness, and reduced milk output.
  5. Subclinical mastitis: $9 billion
  6. It is similar to clinical mastitis but with no apparent signs, resulting in lower milk quality and quantity.
  7. Lameness: $6 billion
  8. A condition characterized by discomfort and difficulty moving is often caused by infections or damage to cow hooves and joints.
  9. Metritis: $5 billion
  10. A bacterial infection of the uterus often develops shortly after calving, resulting in a foul-smelling discharge and consequent reproductive problems.
  11. Ovarian cysts: $4 billion
  12. Fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries often interrupt regular reproductive cycles and result in infertility.
  13. Paratuberculosis/Johne’s disease: $4 billion
  14. A persistent intestinal infection causes substantial weight loss and reduced milk output in afflicted cows.
  15. Retained placenta: $3 billion
  16. Failure to remove the placenta after calving might result in severe infections and reproductive issues.
  17. Displaced abomasum: $0.6 billion
  18. A condition in which the cow’s stomach slips out of its usual position, resulting in digestive issues and a lower milk output.
  19. Dystocia: $0.6 billion
  20. Complex or lengthy labor, which often necessitates human assistance, might raise the risk of infection and problems for both cow and calf.
  21. Milk fever/hypocalcemia: $0.6 billion
  22. A metabolic condition induced by insufficient calcium levels in the blood often affects newly calved calves, resulting in muscular weakness and decreased milk output.
  23. Clinical ketosis: $0.2 billion
  24. A visible type of ketosis is characterized by symptoms such as lack of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy, which have a negative influence on milk supply and cow health.

A Closer Look at Financial Impacts 

Understanding the financial impact of dairy illnesses requires quantifying losses based on milk output, fertility, and culling. Dr. Philip Rasmussen’s team evaluated these parameters to determine their economic influence on the dairy business. They assessed the impact of fertility loss on milk output using standardized milk pricing and considering the increased calving interval.

Another important consideration was the expense of culling. These costs were calculated by weighing the increased risk of premature culling against the cost of replacement cows and heifers, then removing the selling price of cull cows. This yielded a net loss statistic relevant to dairy producers.

Adjusting for comorbidities, or circumstances in which cows suffer from various illnesses simultaneously, was a critical component of their research. This correction eliminated a significant overestimation of financial losses, improved estimate accuracy, and avoided a 45% overstatement of overall expenditures.

Regional Disparities Demand Tailored Approaches 

When considering geographical variances, the results show significant discrepancies in the effect of certain dairy illnesses. Subclinical ketosis, for example, is a substantial economic drain in Oceania, accounting for around 35% of total losses in the area. This illness is responsible for just 24% of dairy loss in Europe. Clinical mastitis has a higher financial impact in Europe, accounting for 25% of overall losses, but just 10% in Oceania.

These findings highlight the significance of specialized illness management methods considering geographical differences. Dairy producers may maximize their resources and save significant financial losses by analyzing and solving the most pressing issues in each sector.

Stark Contrasts in Dairy Disease Losses Around the Globe 

Financial losses from dairy illnesses vary substantially across nations, demonstrating the enormous variations in the consequences of dairy production worldwide. Nigeria has a modest yearly loss of $72 per cow at one extreme. This statistic may represent smaller-scale dairy businesses or less intensive agricultural techniques restricting disease transmission and effect.

In sharp contrast, South Korea loses a whopping $1,900 per cow annually. This significant financial setback emphasizes the country’s high frequency and effect of dairy illnesses. Inadequate disease management, control techniques, and high-density agricultural practices may lead to further losses.

Regarding nations with the most significant overall yearly losses, India leads the list with a staggering $12 billion. Due to the vast size of India’s dairy business, even slight inefficiencies or disease outbreaks may result in massive financial losses. Addressing these concerns might considerably increase production and economic stability for Indian farmers.

The U.S. follows with a $8 billion yearly loss. Despite modern veterinary services and agricultural technology, the large size of operations and different climatic conditions provide unique obstacles to efficiently treating dairy illnesses. Implementing consistent disease management techniques across several locations may be critical to lowering these losses.

China’s dairy business is quickly expanding, resulting in yearly losses of $5 billion. The rapid development and modernization of dairy production in China may contribute to these vast losses as new procedures and breeds are introduced, making them more vulnerable to illness if not adequately managed. Improving disease management strategies and farmer education might assist in reducing these losses.

Effective dairy disease management in these nations is critical for increasing farm profitability while guaranteeing global food security and sustainability. As we work to satisfy rising global food demand, these findings highlight the need for more robust disease control measures suited to each country’s difficulties.

Strategies to Protect Your Dairy Farm from Costly Diseases 

Farming is unquestionably difficult. However, with the proper policies, you may significantly reduce the effect of these expensive illnesses on your dairy farm.  Here are some practical tips: 

  • Preventive Measures: Enforcing robust biosecurity procedures is crucial. Regularly disinfecting equipment, keeping barns clean, and separating new or ill animals may all help avoid disease transmission, including clinical and subclinical mastitis.
  • Early Detection Techniques: Invest in frequent veterinarian check-ups and consider employing technology for health monitoring. Devices and software that monitor milk output and cow behavior may help diagnose subclinical ketosis and lameness early.
  • Effective Treatment Options: Maintaining a well-stocked medicine cabinet is critical. Ensure you have the appropriate medicines for bacterial infections and anti-inflammatory medications for illnesses such as metritis. Always visit your veterinarian to confirm the proper dose and delivery.
  • Nutrition Management: Disease prevention relies heavily on proper diet. Vitamins and minerals must be adjusted to prevent problems such as milk fever/hypocalcemia. Ketosis and displaced abomasum are two metabolic illnesses that may be prevented with careful nutrition management.
  • Breeding Strategies: Selective breeding may help minimize the prevalence of genetic diseases and enhance herd health. Choosing animals with good health records may help reduce the chance of problems, including ovarian cysts and dystocia.

Adopting these techniques will not remove the hazard of dairy illnesses. Still, they will significantly minimize your risks and save you money in the long term.

The Bottom Line

Dr. Philip Rasmussen and his team highlight the enormous financial burden of dairy illnesses, resulting in an estimated $65 billion yearly worldwide losses. Subclinical ketosis leads the list, followed by clinical mastitis and other expensive conditions. Depending on local circumstances and illness incidence, the economic effect varies significantly among locations. This emphasizes the need for regionally specific disease control strategies.

Addressing these illnesses is crucial to protecting farm profitability, improving dairy production efficiency, and reducing environmental impact. Healthier herds result in more sustainable production techniques and a minor carbon impact, aligning with global food security objectives as demand for nutrient-dense dairy products grows.

One issue remains as we look to the future: How can we use veterinary science and farm management advances to produce a healthier, more sustainable dairy sector worldwide? Addressing these severe concerns will be critical to dairy farming’s long-term survival and development.

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When Calves Don’t Make It: A Dairy Farmer’s Emotional Journey

Some calves just aren’t meant to live. Accepting this can ease your guilt and anxiety. Ready to find peace?

Summary: As dairy farmers, we know the heart-wrenching effort it takes to raise a healthy calf. Yet, sometimes, despite our best efforts, we must face a painful truth—not every calf is meant to live. This isn’t about hopelessness but realism and acceptance. Realizing we can’t save every calf can ease the crippling guilt and anxiety we often feel. It’s not a hospital full of people; it’s a dairy farm. Without million-dollar equipment and lifesaving surgeries, some calves just aren’t meant to be saved. Understanding calf mortality rates helps us grasp the issues on the farm. The average calf mortality rate in the first month of life is between 5% and 15%. Factors include diarrhea, respiratory issues, congenital defects, starvation, and difficult births. Knowing these stats allows us to set realistic goals and take steps to mitigate these risks. In conclusion, embracing the emotional and practical aspects of dairy farming can help reduce guilt and improve herd care, fostering a more compassionate and sustainable future.

  • Realism and acceptance are necessary in dairy farming; not every calf can survive.
  • Accepting this fact helps reduce guilt and anxiety when a calf is lost.
  • Typical calf mortality rates in the first month range from 5% to 15%.
  • Common causes of calf mortality include diarrhea, respiratory issues, and difficult births.
  • Setting realistic goals based on these statistics can help mitigate risks and improve herd care.
  • Embracing both emotional and practical aspects of farming leads to better overall herd health and management.

Have you ever felt the weight of a tiny life in your hands, knowing that it may disappear despite your best efforts? Dairy farming is more than a job; it is a vocation that brings pleasure and grief. Calf mortality is one of the most complicated concerns we confront. Each defeat seems like a personal failure. But let’s be honest: are we supposed to rescue every calf? Even if we follow all of the rules, some calves are not destined to live. It’s a hard fact, but we need to accept it. Have you ever thought whether embracing this may help you become a better farmer and a more compassionate person? Even if we do all we can, some creatures cannot live. Join me as we explore the emotional and practical aspects of dairy farming together. Understanding this may reduce some of your debilitating guilt and allow you to better care for your herd.

A Heart-Wrenching Reality: Not Every Calf Can Be Saved, and That’s Okay 

We’ve all been there: a calf is born spirited, with a glint in her eye that offers a world of possibilities. Like many other calves, she began robust, but her health quickly deteriorated. She develops scours, resulting in restless nights, numerous rounds of medication, and frequent monitoring. Despite tight food regimens and electrolyte administrations, her health alternated between short recoveries and severe deterioration. Despite our most significant attempts, she did not make it. Her struggle is a stark reminder of the brutal reality of dairy production. Not every calf deserves to survive; sometimes, letting go is the most humanitarian thing we can do.

It’s In Our Nature. To Feel That Crushing Weight of Guilt When One of Our Calves Doesn’t Make It 

It is in our nature. Feel the terrible weight of shame when one of our calves dies. You lie awake, playing the “what-if” game. What if I had been more aware of the warning signs? What if I had used a different treatment? The grief is personal, and you can’t help but wonder whether anything you did—or didn’t do—contributed to this result.

But, let’s face it: this is a challenging job. It’s more than just a job; it’s a way of life that requires all of us, including the emotional cost of understanding that some calves will not make it. It might cause us to question our ability, expertise, and dedication. But I’ve learned that you’re not alone in your sentiments.

If you’re struggling with this right now, take a minute. Reflect on what you’ve done well and how hard you’ve worked, and realize it’s not all on you. We’re all in this together, experiencing these heartbreaking moments. Let us depend on one another, share our experiences, and realize that, although we may not rescue every calf, we can give them the best opportunity possible. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.

A Vet’s Insight: How Accepting Calf Loss Can Lighten the Emotional Load

According to veterinarians, accepting that not every calf is born to survive may be a giant mental leap for many dairy producers. Although initially difficult to understand, this approach may significantly decrease the guilt and worry associated with calf loss. As your veterinarian may inform you, biological and environmental forces are at work beyond your control.

Research backs up this viewpoint. According to Cave et al. (2005), calf mortality rates may vary significantly based on various circumstances, including genetic predispositions and the local environment. Statistics show that certain losses are inevitable. According to research by the University of Minnesota, calf mortality may vary between 5% and 8%, even in well-managed herds. Understanding these difficulties might help alleviate the emotional weight associated with the regrettable but unavoidable death of a calf.

Adopting this perspective does not imply that you care any less. Instead, it allows you to concentrate your resources better, emphasizing the general health of your herd while being gentler on yourself during those terrible times when, despite your best efforts, a calf does not survive. Remember, your focus on the herd’s overall health is a testament to your professional responsibility.

Understanding Calf Mortality Rates: The Real Challenges and How to Overcome Them 

Understanding calf mortality statistics might help you better understand the problems you encounter on the farm. According to Wilson et al. (2020), the average calf mortality rate during the first month of life is between 5% and 15%. But why do these losses occur? According to statistics, diarrhea accounts for around 30% of calf mortality, often caused by inadequate sanitation and overpopulation [Hyde et al. 2020]. Respiratory problems, such as pneumonia, account for another 20% of fatalities. Other variables include congenital impairments, starvation, and dystocia, which may harm your herd’s youngest members [Cohen et al. 2012]. Recognizing these data allows you to establish more realistic objectives and apply ways to avoid these prevalent hazards, enhancing overall herd health and lowering the emotional impact of calf loss.

What Can You Do to Cope with Calf Mortality While Still Striving to Improve the Overall Health of Your Herd? Here Are Some Practical Tips:

So, how can you deal with calf mortality while still working to enhance your herd’s general health? Here are some practical tips: 

  1. Prioritize Cleanliness and Biosecurity
    Keeping the living environment clean may greatly benefit calf health. Ensure that bedding is kept dry and updated regularly. Feeding equipment and storage areas should also be routinely disinfected. Busch et al. (2017) found that maintaining cleanliness in calving sites minimizes illness outbreaks.
  2. Nutrition Matters
    Proper nutrition must be emphasized more. Ensure that calves get high-quality colostrum during the first few hours after birth. This may dramatically improve their immune systems. Cave et al. (2005) discovered that optimum colostrum consumption is critical for the survival and health of newborn calves.
  3. Constant Monitoring
    Check your calves regularly for symptoms of sickness. Early detection may mean all the difference. Use checklists to track their health, behavior, and development. The University of Minnesota research discovered that constant monitoring aids in the early diagnosis of problems, boosting the likelihood of recovery.
  4. Lean on Your Vet
    If anything appears amiss, don’t hesitate to visit your veterinarian. Regular veterinary appointments may help detect and treat problems early on. Your veterinarian can also assist you in determining which calves have a fighting chance and which, regrettably, may not survive. Remember, your veterinarian is a valuable part of your team, ready to provide support and guidance.
  5. Accept and Reflect
    It is critical to recognize that not all calves can be rescued. Consider what you did well and how you might improve. Discussing situations with your veterinarian might provide fresh views and learning opportunities. Holden and Butler (2018) suggest reflecting on losses might inform future preventative strategies.

Accepting that some losses are unavoidable does not imply that you are failing. It allows you to direct your energy where it will most benefit you. Implement these measures to get the best potential results while acknowledging the reality of dairy farming.

When Losing a Calf Feels Like a Personal Failure 

Losing a calf is heartbreaking. You pour your heart and soul into caring for your herd, and losing one of them seems like a personal failure. Guilt may be crushing. “Did I overlook any symptoms? “Could I have done things differently?” Do these questions eat at you? It is only natural. But here’s the thing: it isn’t your fault. Even with our most significant efforts, not every calf can be rescued. Accepting this might not be easy, but it is necessary for mental health. Let’s speak about how to deal with your pain and guilt.

  1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
    The first step in coping with loss is to recognize your feelings. It’s all right to be sad, irritated, or furious. Bottled-up emotions can only make you feel worse. Discuss your feelings with family, friends, or other farmers who understand your emotional journey.
  2. Reflect on the Positive
    Remember all the good you do. For every calf that is lost, many others are prospering under your care. Reflecting on these accomplishments will assist in alleviating your grief and remind you of your reasonable efforts.
  3. Educate Yourself
    Knowledge is powerful. Understanding why a calf did not make it may sometimes provide closure. Consult with your veterinarian about what occurred. This is not about criticizing oneself; instead, it is about learning for the future.
  4. Professional Support
    Talking to a mental health professional may help. They may provide ways to deal with loss and manage your emotional well-being. Remember that asking for assistance demonstrates strength, not weakness.

Finally, realize that you are doing everything possible for your calves. Losses hurt, but they are a necessary part of the journey. Recognizing your emotions, finding assistance, and concentrating on the positives can help you negotiate the emotional toll of calf death with strength and compassion.

The Bottom Line

As dairy farmers, we pour our emotions into caring for each calf, inspired by an unshakable dedication to their health. We promote cleanliness and biosecurity, provide nutritional support, and continually assess their health. Our veterinarians are vital partners, providing professional guidance and assistance. However, acknowledging the unavoidable—that not every calf can be saved—may alleviate our mental distress. Recognizing our limits is not a sign of failure but rather a fact.

So, where do you stand along this emotional journey? How have you dealt with the loss of a calf, and what solutions have you found effective?

I want you to share your own experiences and coping strategies. Join our network of dairy farmers who are helping each other during these difficult times. Let us learn from one another and reinforce our shared determination. Together, we can traverse the heartbreaking yet rewarding world of dairy farming.

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