T he use of canes, sticks and other similar objects to beat and prod cows is counterproductive. We all know they are sometimes stubborn and it is difficult to have them go where they are supposed to but beating them only worsens the situation both short term and long term. C ows that are ill-treated are likely to be more reluctant to enter the milking center etc. because they associate a negative experience with the location where they are to be milked. If they are not moving properly into the milking facilities study the layout and determine why. If you anticipated getting hit or poked as soon as you entered a certain area you would quickly develop a reluctance to go there.
Cows tend to react the same way.
Udder preparation is one of the first events and it relates to not one but three issues, all of which are important. The first issue is that of getting the teat surface clean and ready for unit attachment. The degree of cleaning that has to be done is based on the how dirty the teats are at the beginning. T he body surface of the cow may have a good deal of dirt and manure attached to hair, skin and it may also be caked on the udder and teats. This material is loaded with bacteria.