Providing herd health management in practice - How does it work on farm?

Herd health management is a continual process involving regular farm visits, data analysis and frequent feedback with the dairy staff. The specific objectives of such programmes will vary according to the farmers' aspirations but the focus should always be on the constant monitoring and re-evaluation of the farm's performance so that herd management may be improved over time. Data analysis forms a critical component in the delivery of herd health services and measures should be taken to ensure the completeness and accuracy of records so that the impact of management changes can be monitored in a reliable manner. There are many potential barriers to the implementation and management of herd health programmes but these need to be overcome in the transition from providing a predominantly 'reactive' ambulatory service to a more 'proactive', advice-oriented role. The success of such services requires effective communication and motivational skills if advice given is going to be implemented on farm. The provision of active herd health programmes to dairy clients represents an excellent opportunity for veterinary surgeons to generate a valuable and sustainable income stream if it is charged for correctly whilst improving herd health and performance concurrently.