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On the dairy farm of Sietse Tjalma in Molkwerum, sturdy cows and preventive action come first. Health is at the heart of how the farm is run. Sietse works on longevity with roomier cubicles, cow brushes and good hygiene. Udder health and general health in particular are going well.
Cell count back under control
In the past the farm had to deal with a higher cell count. This was tackled by working more cleanly, bedding the cubicles regularly and using a different dip and spray product in the robot. The cell count is now around 110, with a target of around 100.
Udder health is monitored closely through bulk tank milk, conductivity and milk yield after every robot visit. Sietse actively uses that robot data to step in early. The Udder bolus has been part of that routine for at least five years now.
First choice for early udder problems
The reason to use the Udder bolus was mainly price and quality. Ease of use also plays a part. “It’s easy to give, works for a long time and I don’t have to do anything else,” says Sietse. The bolus is mainly used for early udder problems, but also for a weakened cow that needs extra support. For Sietse it is mostly the first choice. Before, he tried other garlic boluses and products, but he found them too aggressive or too strong-smelling.
Effect visible on the cow and in the robot data
He usually sees the effect quickly. “Within three days I already see an effect. The conductivity drops, the milk yield picks up again and the cow starts eating better.” He sees that both in the robot data and with his own eyes. He also sees added value in cows that are more prone to cell count problems. Sometimes they need another bolus later on, but after that they often don’t come up again.
Would he recommend the Udder bolus to others?
“Definitely use it. It’s easy to give and does its job if you spot it and use it in time. It saves costs, you can keep delivering the milk and the cow recovers.”
