| dc.description.abstract | The focus of veterinarians in the field of dairy cattle has shifted greatly in recent years. The main objective is now on preventing disease before it happens rather than treating clinically ill animals. Although this is still necessary efforts are being made to reduce the number of animals becoming clinically ill either with metabolic diseases or otherwise. All levels of a farms operation now fall under a vet’s scrutiny and any positive changes he or she can make will hopefully make farms more productive and profitable in the long term. This thesis not only gave me a more complete understanding of the metabolism and correct management of dairy cattle but also a great practical lesson on how to resolve issues that I may have to deal with in my every day veterinary career. By carrying out the analysis of the farm in Abony, I was able to identify problem areas in both the nutrition and management of animals in this herd and come up with a range of suggestions to help them rectify these issues. The protein issue along with poor body conditioning, carotene deficiency and alkalosis in several groups of animals were the main things that needed addressing on my case study farm and a lot of these could be eradicated by ration analysis and changing to a more appropriate total mixed ration for different cow groups and their needs. It’s hoped that the suggestions mentioned in the discussion part above can be implemented in some way by the farms own vet in a way that suits the current management practices on the farm and is financially beneficial to the farm, this again was of great value for me in preparation for my future career. Good herd health is now the most important thing that vets can provide their clients. It helps farmers keep as low a cost base as possible and productivity can be optimized ensuring the dairy industry can remain competitive in the modern market. If vets can continue to improve standards of both the management and productivity on farms by some of the methods highlighted in this thesis, then the future remains bright for both the farms in question and the vets providing advice and care to them. | en |
