3 Every Day

Commitment is important in any relationship, which is something dairy farmers know best. Their entire job revolves around the care of their cows, and, in return, cows produce nutritious milk. Food and  water is constantly provided to cows, and nutritionists work with farmers to produce the healthiest,  most beneficial ration, or “mix of feed”, for each and every meal. Throughout a cow’s life, she is given  different rations. As a baby, she eats grain and drinks water and milk. As she gets older, her diet consists  of hay and silage. Once the cow has a calf, she begins lactating. Her diet needs to be adjusted  throughout her lactation, to meet her nutritional needs. The feed is generally made up of corn, grasses,  and soybeans, and each farm has their own mix with various other ingredients, such as minerals and  vitamins. Cows are also provided with fresh bedding on specially designed stalls; most cows even have a  favorite stall! Ventilation is also key in keeping cows happy. Barns are strategically designed to allow for  clean air flow, and farmers adjust curtains and fans to create the best conditions for the cows. By  making cows comfortable, farmers allow cows to relax, and give more milk. Relationships are about  giving and receiving; one of the best friendships is between man and cow.