For the best outcome at calving time, know the signs and stages of labour, how to calve a cow, and the immediate care needed after calving. Check springers regularly to help identify the signs of labour, ensuring timely interventions if needed.

Managing down cows is crucial for dairy farmers. When a cow is down, it's important to promptly diagnose the cause, decide on a treatment, and follow a management plan.

Better decisions start with better data. Hear how DairyNZ research using wearables is paving the way for practical solutions to improve cow comfort and productivity on your farm.

How are farmers helping to shape DairyNZ’s animal care research and why does it matter for our global competitiveness? Penny Timmer-Arends and Dr Stacey Hendriks explain market expectations and the key factors influencing cow comfort.

Lameness is a cow health issue that requires timely detection and treatment. It affects the wellbeing of cows and people, taking time, energy and skill to treat. The DairyNZ lameness scoring system helps you spot early signs and monitor.

A DairyNZ study investigated hyperketonaemia in grazing cows and determined that elevated blood beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations were not always associated with poor reproductive performance under a pasture-based diet.

The transition period in a cow's life requires precise feed management to ensure health and optimal milk production. It’s important to set BCS targets, monitor those targets and adjust your feed budget as required, especially pre- and post-calving.

The transition period in a dairy cow's life, spanning three weeks pre and post-calving, is crucial. During this time, your cows shift from late pregnancy to lactation.

Our understanding of animal welfare has evolved. Instead of focusing solely on health and production, there is now a broader perspective that considers behaviour and affective state, which considers an animal’s experiences and overall wellbeing.

In this episode, Jac McGowan and Mitch Cooper, veterinarian and DairyNZ’s Senior Technical and Policy Advisor, discuss how to prevent and manage down cows during calving season. Get practical tips on how to recognise early signs, treatment and care.

Tune in to Episode 80 of Talking Dairy, where DairyNZ Senior Scientist Dawn Dalley shares 15 years of research and practical tips to help you manage and ensure your cows thrive during the challenging winter months.