Farm Survey
Full Herd Survey
The most frequently used service of QMPS is the full herd survey, whereby milking procedures, management, housing, equipment, and mastitis control are evaluated. This service is for herds using an ongoing mastitis control program where a complete picture is desired, or for herds experiencing problems with mastitis. Trained personnel arrive at the farm toward the end of the milking and take composite or quarter milk samples from all the lactating cows, using aseptic techniques.
Milking equipment receives a complete exam, including pulsator graphs, air flow readings, and controller function. Dry cow management, housing conditions, equipment maintenance, and mastitis control are discussed and recorded. When culture results are completed, a comprehensive report is developed, including recommendations, based on all information available. This report is then sent to the dairy producer and his/her veterinarian. If you would like to sign up with Quality Milk to receive herd testing, please contact us at 607-255-8202 or qmps@cornell.edu.
Extension Survey
This service is most often used by dairy producers who have large herds and consistently low somatic cell counts (SCC). An extension survey provides the same quality service as the full herd survey. Animals with a high SCC are sampled as well as any individual animals that may be experiencing a clinical mastitis problem. All other components of the full herd survey (milking equipment, dry cow housing, maintenance, mastitis control, etc.) are included in this service. Farmers concerned about stray voltage can request that QMPS visit and test for secondary neutral and cow contact voltage. The test is recorded over a four to seven day period. Dairy producers who are enrolled in the Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA) have a further advantage in that those records are combined with the extension information. All information is then used to monitor the herd and make recommendations for improved management and mastitis control.
Clinical Samples
In addition to the field services offered by the QMPS, veterinarians and dairy producers throughout the state may take advantage of the opportunity to submit clinical samples directly to the regional laboratories. The resulting culture information can be used to determine the source of infection, treatment and effectiveness of treatment.