The severity of mastitis' consequences demands that dairymen and rural-animal veterinarians take great precaution to maintain an environment that is hostile toward infecting bacteria and microorganisms. Florida's sweltering climate can compromise dairy production, he said, as cows' appetites shrink, leaving some skinny and dehydrated. The fans disperse streams of water, creating refreshing mists that cool the entire barn. This system is just one comfort feature 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. The Road Less Traveled 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. When you're stuck in your concrete building for a living, you don't get to see that.