New FAO training tools for healthier, more productive dairy farms

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has published a set of practical training resources aimed at helping farmers, vets, and advisors improve dairy cattle health and productivity. Titled - Improving Dairy Cattle Health and Productivity - the easy-to-use, visual materials cover key topics like colostrum management, calf housing, nutrition, milking hygiene, and biosecurity, and are designed for flexible, farm-based training sessions.

These resources were created as part of a regional effort to lower antimicrobial use in dairy and poultry, emphasizing that better husbandry can prevent most diseases and reduce the need for antimicrobials. By encouraging responsible antimicrobial use and focusing on preventive care, the materials support better animal welfare, farm management, and environmental outcomes. Download the training materials.