Written protocols should be in place and reviewed annually with your veterinarian and employees to ensure that certain procedures are carried out appropriately.

How to assess:

Review the nutrition management protocol to confirm that the following information is included and that appropriate criteria are being met:

Validus

• Feed must:
  • Be available to lactating cows at least 20 hours/day
  • Be available to calves, heifers, and dry cows at least once in a 24-hour period
  • Meet the National Research Council (NRC) requirements for dairy cattle for each age and stage of the animal
• Water must be positioned to allow ad lib access
• Animals in confinement longer than 2 hours must have access to water