The Transition Period

The Transition Period

The transition period, the weeks leading up to and following calving, are the most stressful in a dairy cow’s life. One of the major determinants of whether a cow transitions successfully is her ability to maintain adequate blood calcium status during this time. It is...
Protecting Health with Methionine

Protecting Health with Methionine

Amino acid balance in the lactating dairy cow ration is essential for optimal nutrient metabolism, strong immunity, and milk synthesis. When the ratios of amino acids in the diet most accurately reflect the cow’s needs, she becomes most efficient at metabolizing all...
The Importance of Starch Digestion

The Importance of Starch Digestion

I will start by quoting a dairy farmer whom I met early in my career, “it’s all about energy!” He was referring to his experience when working to get the best results from his herd. I have come to understand that he is right on so many levels. Recently I attended the...