When the dairy inspector asks

[regolith]

...about your management policy for cow tails

"I try to avoid them" :dunce: is not the correct answer.
Just thought that might help the next person who thought that was their management policy.

 

[CottageFarm]

:???: I sounds like a very wise management practice to me, too :dunce:

 

[wbvs58]

What's the correct answer?
Ken

 

[regolith]

What's the correct answer?
Ken

I got a 'commendation' on the report for having a herd with nicely trimmed tails. (rat-tails, in other phraseology)

 

[TexasBred]

What's the correct answer?
Ken

I got a 'commendation' on the report for having a herd with nicely trimmed tails. (rat-tails, in other phraseology)

Trimming the switch of the tail is "suppose" to help hold down potential mastitis problems. We always trimmed tails but only a trim. Still left enough of the switch that they could swat a fly.

 

[regolith]

What's the correct answer?
Ken

I got a 'commendation' on the report for having a herd with nicely trimmed tails. (rat-tails, in other phraseology)

Trimming the switch of the tail is "suppose" to help hold down potential mastitis problems. We always trimmed tails but only a trim. Still left enough of the switch that they could swat a fly.

Grassfed dairy cows in spring are a whole different...
I can trim them bald and six weeks later they'll need done again, to get the clinkers off and keep the udder and flanks clean.
Heard a farmer at discussion group years ago pointing this out - first thing we do when they calve is take off their switch, but they need their switch.
But if they keep it, the results are dire!

 

[GMN]

i trim my cows down below the stump on the tail-it is nice and they can still use their tail to chase flies, and this way its short enough where no mud etc is that bad

 

[Putangitangi]

I think your answer is excellent! Where's the Kiwi sense of humour gone to?

 

[regolith]

I think your answer is excellent! Where's the Kiwi sense of humour gone to?

Some of the questions asked under the guise of 'inspection' can only be adequately answered with an incredulous (did I hear you right?) look.
Came across the question in the Mandatory Recording Pages "How do you identify udders and teats...." and drew several of the sort of pictures that would have earned detention for a high school kid.

 

[regolith]

I still endeavour to avoid them tails. Neatly trimmed still hurts when they whack you in the face.

 

[Putangitangi]

I think your answer is excellent! Where's the Kiwi sense of humour gone to?

Some of the questions asked under the guise of 'inspection' can only be adequately answered with an incredulous (did I hear you right?) look.
Came across the question in the Mandatory Recording Pages "How do you identify udders and teats...." and drew several of the sort of pictures that would have earned detention for a high school kid.

No, no, you bring your sharpie with you and draw little faces on them, so you can tell them apart! If there's room, draw them name tags too. :lol:

 

[Nesikep]

c'mon, post a picture of this artwork!