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A Zoetis run survey of more than 200 farmers by Zoetis found nearly 60% wished to receive further education on mastitis prevention during lactation and the dry period. Our survey shows there has already been a massive step-change in how many farmers manage this condition.

For example, 90% of respondents are practising selective dry cow therapy (SDCT). However, it also highlighted that while farmers may think they know the greatest cause of mastitis on their farm, some aren't doing any monitoring at all.

The majority of farmers surveyed considered lactation origin environmental infection the primary source of transmission. However, a study in the Veterinary Record in 20161 found that for almost half of farms the environment within the dry period is a more significant source of infection than in lactation.

This could indicate that many farmers are underestimating the true importance of dry period origin infections that then cause cases of mastitis in early lactation. This reinforces the need for further education highlighting the importance of the correct use of teat sealants to reduce the chance of acquiring new infections during the dry period.

Down PM, Bradley AJ, Breen JE, Hudson CD, Green MJ. Current management practices and interventions prioritised as part of a nationwide mastitis control plan. Vet Rec. 2016 Apr 30;178(18):449. doi: 10.1136/vr.103203. Epub 2016 Mar 10. PMID: 26966249; PMCID: PMC4893133.

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