Effectiveness of cow cooling techniques during the milking routines

Abstract

The comparative effectiveness of 7 different combinations of cooling techniques were tested in the summer of 1986 of Tucson, Arizona. Cooling techniques include premilking holding pen fanned-sprinkling, evaporative cooled milking parlors, exit water spray, as well as shade access in postmilking area. Ten Holstein cows were selected by different hair color predominately. Mean body temperature drops due to 7 different combinations of cooling techniques are presented. Twenty one planned comparisons between any 2 of the 7 different combinations are made. Sixteen comparisons showed significant (0.05) differences. Hair colors are of null effects on either body temperature drops or the stressed body temperatures. Body temperature patterns of the 7 different combinations during the milking time are graphically presented.