Impact of Veterinary Herd Health Management on German Dairy Farms: Effect of Participation on Farm Performance.

ABSTRACT: German dairy farming has intensified markedly in recent years, and the demand for Veterinary Herd Health Management (VHHM) is rising. To protect farms from epidemics, ensure food safety, and prevent developing of antibiotic resistance, VHHM has been anchored in EU law since April 2021. Via an online survey, distributed by different farmers' organizations, dairy farmers were asked about the cooperation with their veterinarian. The aim was to evaluate farm performance as a function of participation in VHHM. From 216 analyzed questionnaires, 106 respondents participated in VHHM. Results showed that farmers who make use of VHHM and consult their veterinarian in decision-making frequently have the highest 305-day milk yield (305dMY), the lowest bulk tank somatic cell counts, and the lowest age

SUBMITTER: Ries J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9021589 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature