Animal Housing Options Chapter 5: Animal Housing Options © 2005 Thomson Delmar Learning. All rights reserved.

Key Chapter Concepts: Animal grouping strategies Cow comfort Freestall barn design

Animal Grouping Strategies — Grouping by Need Nutritional needs Health needs Reproductive needs

Animal Grouping Strategies — Grouping by Production Healthy milking cows Dry cows Cows with special needs

Cow Comfort Access to feed and water Reasonable animal density Good ventilation Clean quarters and animals Comfort determines milk quality and quantity

Freestall Barn Design — 4-Row vs. 6-Row Barn 4-Row Barns Cost Higher stocking rates Lower labor rates Comfort Increased access to feed/water Convenience Good for self-locking stalls

Freestall Barn Design — 4-Row vs. 6-Row Barn 6-Row Barns Cost Less expensive per stall Higher overall cost Comfort Decreased access to feed/water Convenience “Back pen”/“front pen” issue