The racehorse and the dairy cow: A question of productivity

摘要

The racehorse and the modern dairy cow have several things in common. Both have been genetically selected for performance, primarily through the use of a limited number of popular sires, and performance depends predominantly on one or two organ systems. In both the racing and dairy industries, maintenance of the productivity of an animal requires a team that includes the owner, trainer, animal care staff and the veterinarian. The veterinarian faces a unique challenge: effectiveness in the team requires an understanding not only of techniques for diagnosis and treatment (including medication regulations), but also management, and economics. All of this must be accomplished while bearing in mind the veterinarian’s oath of responsibility for humane care.