FROM THE START
Most dairy cows are bred using safe and scientific artificial insemination and bio-monitored every step along the way. The cow will stop milking for a two-month dry period before giving birth, so preparing for calving is her priority. Farmers keep close tabs on the cow throughout the entire gestation period, on average 276 days, to ensure optimal health of the cow and the calf.
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A young cow who hasn't given birth yet is called a heifer. Heifers are usually bred at about 15 months of age and can't produce milk until they've given birth to a calf. They'll produce milk for about 10 months afterward.