Pathogen-based treatment programs for milk quality

dry cows and clinical mastitis

Abstract

Blanket dry-cow therapy has been recommended for decades. For a variety of reasons, this recommendation is being reconsidered. The alternative is selective treatment. Diagnostics and dry-cow therapy treatment decisions can be performed at the quarter or cow level. Selective antimicrobial use at dry-off creates an opportunity to practice good drug stewardship. In many situations, it has been shown to offer economic benefits. Research indicates that success of a selective dry-cow therapy (SDCT) program is farm specific. Veterinarians should remain abreast of current research findings and consider farm management and pathogen presence as they work with producers to develop a best SDCT strategy.