What do a high-performance car and a dairy cow have in common? Well, it’s all about the details. A luxury car needs the right road and maintenance to perform at its best. Similarly, dairy cows need proper care, environment, and management to reach their full potential. Chlem Nash, Technical Manager for Novus International, highlights the importance of this connection. Advancements in genetics and nutrition have driven impressive gains in dairy production. Nash believes we must focus on the next step. Improving management and housing will support these powerhouse animals for long-term success.
"In the last 40 years, cows have become genetic powerhouses, producing twice as much milk as they did decades ago," Nash explained. "However, despite these advancements, we’re seeing more health issues, including increased lameness and reduced fertility. It’s like taking a Mercedes-Benz and putting it on a gravel road—it might look good, but it won’t perform well without the proper road and maintenance."