Woman Herding Cows Past Outriggers on a Beach

Woman Herding Cows Past Outriggers on a Beach

A dairy cow begins giving milk once she delivers her first calf at about two years of age. Dairy cows have a calf about once a year. Taking care of calves is important to dairy farmers because calves represent the future. When a cow is ready to give birth, the cow goes to a maternity area to ensure comfort and safety.

Calves are usually moved to a calf hutch shortly after birth. This protects them from germs that can be passed from the environment or other animals while their immune systems mature. It also allows for individualized feeding and health monitoring.

Veterinarians routinely visit dairy farms to conduct check-ups, administer vaccinations and treat illness. Farmers and their workers observe the dairy cattle every day, so they quickly notice if an animal becomes ill. The veterinarian is called for a consultation if needed.

If a dairy cow becomes sick, she is often treated with antibiotics to help her recover. A dairy cow being treated with antibiotics is either separated from the milking herd or clearly identified so that her milk is not mixed with that of the healthy dairy cattle. This insures her milk does not enter the food supply until the antibiotics have cleared her system.