ROLE OF VETERINARY SERVICES IN DAIRY HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY ENHANCEMENT
Sanjiv Kumar*, Ankita Srivastaw, Saurabh Patel, Kushagra Anand and Neha Kumari
Department of Veterinary Pathology, Bihar Veterinary College, BASU, Patna
The dairy industry plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of country like India. It serves as a significant source of livelihood, nutrition, and rural employment. Dairy farming not only contributes to the food but also provides a consistent source of income to millions of farmers. However, the productivity and profitability of dairy farming are directly linked to the health and welfare of dairy animals. In this regard, veterinary services emerge as an indispensable component of the dairy value chain. They not only address the health concerns of animals but also promote sustainable practices, improved productivity and biosecurity. This article delves into the comprehensive role of veterinary services in enhancing dairy health and overall productivity. The role of Veterinary services can be categorized into:
- Animal Welfare and Biosecurity
- Reproductive Efficiency
- Animal Health and Disease Management
- Nutrition and Feed Management
- Educating Farmers
- Emergency Services
Modern veterinary services emphasize animal welfare, ensuring that animals are not only productive but also live under humane conditions. Welfare practices not only include comfortable housing but also pain-free procedures (e.g., dehorning, hoof trimming) etc. In addition, veterinarians help design and implement biosecurity protocols to prevent the entry and spread of diseases on farms. Common diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Mastitis, Brucellosis, Hemorrhagic Septicemia, and Theileriosis severely affect milk production and animal longevity. Veterinarians provide preventive measures such as vaccination programs, deworming schedules, regular health check-ups and diagnostic services to identify and treat diseases early. Control of mastitis not only improves milk quantity and quality but also reduces public health risks associated with antibiotic residues in milk.
Poor reproductive performance leads to economic losses due to longer calving intervals, reduced milk yield, and infertility. Veterinary services contribute by performing Artificial Insemination, conducting estrus detection and pregnancy diagnosis, treating reproductive disorders, educating farmers on optimum breeding times and nutritional needs during gestation etc. Proper nutrition is also crucial for maintaining animal health, supporting reproduction, and maximizing milk output. Veterinarians and animal nutritionists help farmers by assessing feed quality and nutrient requirements based on the animal’s stage of lactation, age, and body condition, formulating balanced rations using locally available feed resources and recommending mineral mixtures and vitamin supplements to address
Through extension services, veterinarians conduct awareness programs, farm visits, and hands-on training sessions to educate farmers on basic managemental practices. During natural calamities such as floods, droughts, or disease outbreaks, veterinary services play a frontline role in emergency response by Providing medical relief and rehabilitation of livestock.
In recent years, veterinary services have embraced digital technologies to improve outreach and efficiency. Use of Mobile applications, Wearable sensors and Data analytics empower both veterinarians and farmers with actionable insights for better herd management.
Veterinary role extends beyond treatment. They are advisors, educators, emergency responders, and change agents. Veterinary services are an indispensable pillar of the dairy industry. By ensuring the health, nutrition, reproduction, and welfare of dairy animals, veterinarians drive both productivity and profitability in dairy farming.
*Dr. Sanjiv Kumar
Head, Department of Veterinary Pathology
email:mrsanvet@rediffmail.com
