He pointed to the evaporative cooling system that wards against humidity s wrath. The system really is a crude-looking network of garden hoses and floor fans that are suspended from the ceiling. The fans disperse the streams of water, creating refreshing mists that cool the entire barn. This system is just one feature of comfort for the cows. Food-animal veterinarians work with dairymen to create the most livable environment, Risco explained.
Comfort is key to high milk yields.
The cow just won t produce. Driving back to UF from North Florida Holstein, the truck wound through rural roads bordered by vast green pastures dotted with cattle. An impressive pasture spilled from a farmhouse that was set back from the road. Black beef cattle moseyed on the field, grazing on grass turned crispy by the drought. That s one great thing about being a large animal doctor you get to appreciate that, RAMS resident Dr. Francois Bernard mused, pointing to the farmstead and looming cloud-filled sky.