An important part of a herdsman’s job is to treat sick cows. Good herdsmen draw upon their knowledge, experience and what they learn from the owners of their dairies, veterinarians or other specialists. But the best herdsmen not only do the right thing, they do the right thing all the time.

Magazines like El Lechero help you by providing information to diagnose and treat sick cows. So let me explain how to avoid some mistakes I see which prevent good herdsmen from being great.

What is the difference between contagious and environmental mastitis pathogens, and why does it matter?

Mastitis is caused by many different types of bacteria, which invade the udder by gaining access through the teat canal. Once inside the gland, these microorganisms multiply and produce harmful substances that result in inflammation, reduced milk production and altered milk quality.

Microorganisms that most frequently cause mastitis can be divided into two broad categories: contagious pathogens and environmental pathogens.

Metabolic and environmental stress during the transition period and through lactation alters the efficiency of the immune system, making cows more susceptible to infectious diseases with subsequent impairment of productive and reproductive performance; as well as the physiological consequences of a stressful environment. This includes competition for feed and ranking within the group, cow comfort, overall environment, weather and human contact with animals, among others.

The role of dairy managers and herdsmen is to ensure that good agricultural, hygienic and animal husbandry practices are employed. The focus should be on preventing a problem rather than solving it after it has occurred.

As I travel in our Southwest states, I quickly recognize heat stress is already starting to impact milk production.

Studies have indicated that the upper limit/critical temperature for heat stress will begin between 70˚F to 80˚F and can start as low as 68˚F for lactating dairy cattle.

It’s easier for you and better for the cows if we can keep health problems from occurring rather than treat them after they occur.

The dairy owner and his or her veterinarian have developed a vaccination program based on the principle that vaccines prevent disease while antibiotics treat disease.

Many of these vaccines are administered at dry-off or during the dry period. Vaccinating cows and heifers at this time can prevent health problems for both the cow and her calf.