The bonus of split calving is that you can match feed supply with feed demand throughout the year, says Neville Porteous of Te Arai Farms in lower Northland.

In a three-part series, veterinarian Olivia Sutton, of Vetlife Oamaru, looks at optimising future heifers during calf rearing. In this second article, she looks at Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT).

In a three-part series, veterinarian Olivia Sutton, Vetlife Omaru, looks at optimising future heifers with calf rearing.

Cows can be very protective of their calves and see people as a threat. 

Dairy farmers and lifestyle farmers rearing calves must do all their paperwork, says OSPRI.

Weaning based on calf weight and meal intake will help calves develop into healthy heifers, says DairyNZ.

In seasonally calving herds all heifers are expected to be fertile and mated at the same time, but their birth dates typically span four-six weeks. 

Conditions look promising for the start of calving in the Lower North Island.

To set up a dairy cow for a long, productive life you must give her the best possible start. Extra effort now will pay dividends throughout her milking life.

Knowing the signs and stages of labour, how to calf a cow and the immediate care needed after calving, will increase the number of successful births.