The cow's heat load increases during summer months due to more intense solar radiation and less air flow movement, as well as higher temperature and humidity. The duration the cow is under an increased heat load will dramatically impact her recovery time once the environmental conditions improve. This might include the parlor holding pen, the milking parlor, the return alley, feeding areas and cow beds. The holding pen is often the first place to start, as cows are packed tightly and air flow is often limited. To improve the cow's comfort, it is important to minimize the time cows spend in the holding pen.
T here needs to be plenty of air-flow movement.
However, just blowing hot air won't do it alone. Water is also needed. The cow's heat load increases during summer months due to more intense solar radiation and less air flow movement, as well as higher temperature and humidity. To improve the cow's comfort, it is important to minimize the time cows spend in the holding pen. M aintaining cool resting areas is critical, as well.