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Jason Short, northern business manager for Volac, runs through some of the key benefits of using automated milk feeders for calf rearing.

Modern day concentrated whey protein based milk powders can deliver top notch calf performance thanks to careful processing and delivery of essential bio-nutrients

Genomic testing heifers and breeding replacements from the best should be a ‘no-brainer’ considering the potential improvements in genetic gain up for grabs.

Installing an automated milk feeder has been part of one Lancashire dairy farm’s drive to future-proof the business.

Since combining genomic testing with a sexed and beef strategy, rapid gain in £PLI has been achieved on the youngstock averaging £154 per head above the milking heifers.

Vaccinating cows with Rotavec® Corona has been part of a holistic approach which has boosted calf health and reduced stress levels for Derbyshire farmer Sam Chadfield.

Automated milk feeding enables Barber’s Farmhouse cheesemakers to successfully rear 600 quality heifers per year from seven of their dairy herds.

Selecting the best females based on genomic testing has resulted in rapid gains at Grosvenor Farms, Cheshire, where top notch management is helping heifers fulfil their genetic potential.

Maximising the genetic potential of your herd is reliant on piecing together every part of the calf rearing jigsaw; from breeding to colostrum, feeding, environment and health planning.

Vaccinating dams and ensuring calves rapidly receive plenty of high quality colostrum is part of an ‘immunity-led prevention’ strategy which will help boost health and performance.