Milking time!

Since I will be going back to a dairy farm tomorrow to fit in some more work experience with cattle, I thought I'd post what I learnt from my experience there last time and have a re-cap myself!

First of all I helped to bring in the cows from the nearby field into a 14/28 milking system which as the name suggests milked 14 cows at a time on either side. Once into the milking parlour, an antiseptic solution was placed on the cow's udders to ensure they were clean and would not contaminate the milk being produced, the farmer taught me how to attach the machinery to the udders. After the machinery had milked the cows, it detached itself and sent out jets of water...which often ended up soaking me and it was my job to dip the teats of the cow in iodine to prevent the possibility of mastitis occurring. In terms of animal handling skills, I was also told how when dealing with cows it is better to stand to behind them than to the side as there is a reduced chance of you being kicked.

After milking, I was shown to two new-born calves who I got to feed with a solution of pre-made milk. Both of them were twins and the farmer discussed with me how this had a negative effect upon the mother and told me that twins were not favoured in cattle raising. As soon as they were old enough the farmer intended on sending them to market.

Next, I followed the farmer out to watch her inject a cow with antibiotics following a recent infection and helped to pen the cows up for the night. Finally I returned to the milking parlour and helped to wash down the surfaces and machinery in order to prevent the spread of disease and attracting flies which could lead to flystrike in the herd and is obviously unhygienic for producing milk in. By working on a dairy farm I witnessed the commercial side of keeping livestock and the hard work farmers have to put in in order to meet demand and survive as well as keeping a healthy, happy herd.

Last time I went milking was really fun as I enjoyed the hands on experience and getting stuck in, so I am looking forward to going back again tomorrow a lot and will keep you updated!

                                 
Image: http://www.collapseboard.com/everett-true/the-sacred-cows-of-indie-music-3-joy-division/attachment/us-dairy-cattle/