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What are the recommended milking procedures for a dairy herd?

Last Updated: September 14, 2007

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Studies have shown that dairy herds with high somatic cell counts do not follow the recommended milking procedures.
• Step 1: Provide cows with a clean, stress-free environment.
• Step 2: Check foremilk and udder for mastitis.
• Step 3: Wash teats and lower surface of the udder with a warm sanitizing solution.
• Step 4: Use a premilking teat dip.
• Step 5: Dry teats thoroughly with a single-service paper or cloth towel.
• Step 6: Attach teat cups within a minute.
• Step 7: Adjust milking units as necessary, including any situation resulting in liner slip.
• Step 8: Shut off vacuum before removing teat cups.
• Step 9: Dip teats with a safe and effective teat dip.
• Step 10 (optional): Disinfect teat cups between cows.

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