On this Progressive Dairy Podcast, Matt Dodd, DVM, a Ruminant Field Technical Specialist with Diamond V, shares strategies to support the herd throughout the marathon of heat stress season. As the season progresses, producers implement different strategies to help the herd combat heat and humidity. He will dive into pre-season prep, management adjustments and the use of additives, such as Diamond V™ Ice Plus, to support maintaining milk production and reproductive health.

As temperatures rise, cows need to sustain their endurance for the entire season – whether they are lactating or growing the next generation. As average temperatures have continued to increase year-over-year, we’re seeing more heat stress days annually impacting dairy cows’ performance across the US. Ultimately, it’s not a matter of if heat stress will impact a herd – but how deep is the impact.

This podcast examines management strategies to support maintaining milk production and reproductive health throughout the heat stress season:

• Pre-season prep: Activate a check list and audit, prep equipment (1:05-5:00)
• During heat stress: Physical, feed and bunk management (5:00-7:30)
• Late-season: Shift strategies as the season continues (7:30 - 9:30)
• Diamond V™ Ice Plus helps cool, protect and hydrate (9:30-11:25)

This episode is sponsored by Diamond V.

Diamond V delivers a true partnership, built on trust, quality, and innovation. Our cutting-edge technologies, combined with our technical expertise, support your animal's health and help your dairy business thrive. A new addition to our expanding portfolio, Diamond V™ Ice Plus helps support cows during the challenges of heat stress season. It features a unique, synergistic blend that helps lessen the heat’s impact on milk production and reproductive health by supporting cow cooling at the cellular level. Stay cool at DiamondV.com/IcePlus.