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Milking Routine


Written protocols should be in place and reviewed annually with your veterinarian and employees to ensure that certain procedures are carried out appropriately.  ​​​​​

​Goals:

To ensure low-stress animal handling and well-being during milking.

How to assess:

​​Review the milking routine protocol to confirm that the following information is included and that appropriate criteria are being met:

National Dairy FARM Program
  • Cows should be moved without excessive vocal or physical interaction
  • Handlers should walk against the flow of cows coming into the parlor, paying attention to the reaction of the cattle and adjust for balking or stopping
  • Gates and restraining equipment operate smoothly, quietly, and safely
  • Waiting time is minimized for each milking

Validus
  • Milking equipment has been tested in the last 6 months
  • Wait times are less than 5 hours/pen in a 24-hour period
  • Animals are calm during milking
  • Cows are evaluated for mastitis (visually, palpation, stripping) as part of the milking routine
  • Teats are dipped or sprayed after milking
  • If used:
    • Rapid exit leaves adequate room for cows to exit without being hit by stalls
    • Crowd gate is used sensibly and not aggressively 

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