DeLaval has launched its Herd Navigator in the UK, which it says allows dairy farmers to identify significantly more cows in heat than can be seen with current heat detection aids, such as activity meters, or visual checks to spot mastitis before it affects the milk.
Milk producers will also be made aware of cows affected by different metabolic disorders before actual symptoms are visible, it says.
According to Delaval, the new system will give the milk producer a better overview of the whole herd while providing valuable information on individual cows. Herd Navigator is a multi award winner. The Herd Navigator concept has been developed in close co-operation between FOSS and DeLaval International AB and DeLaval GB will be working in co-operation with EBVC vets.
“Herd Navigator is a significant innovation in herd management as the system automatically measures different components in the milk while the cow is being milked” says Kieran FitzGerald, VMS Solutions Manager, UK and Ireland.
He says that Herd Navigator provides the opportunity to improve the financial result from each cow: early warnings alert the milk producer to the appropriate quick action needed for individual cows, for reproduction, health and nutrition. Proactive action will also improve animal welfare and food safety.
Herd Navigator focus areas include reproduction, udder health and feeding. Using sophisticated bio modelling, analytical results are presented on the farmers computer in a clear form that makes it easy to spot animals which need special attention including:
- Cows in heat, pregnant cows and cows with reproduction disorders or abortions;
- Cows that are developing mastitis, days before clinical signs can be seen; and,
- Early detection of ketosis cases or imbalance in feed ration.
The new technology will be rolled out in the UK over the next 12 months with the first systems offered on the Irish market towards the end of 2015.