At Tafarn Y Bugail Farm, a fourth-generation dairy operation run by Llyr Griffiths, proactive cow health management is key to maintaining performance. Milking 500 pedigree Holsteins at an average of 31–32 liters per cow, the farm relies on data-driven insights to optimize dairy cow health, productivity, and fertility.

Using Technology to Detect Early Health Issues

With the implementation of smaXtec monitoring technology, the team can track critical health indicators such as rumination, temperature, and activity in real time. High temperature alerts and drops in rumination are often the first signs of health challenges in dairy cows.

However, identifying the issue is only the first step. When cows showed elevated temperatures, the team would carry out mastitis checks, including CMT tests. When results came back negative, the next course of action was often unclear—leading to delayed intervention and prolonged recovery.

Trial: Injectable vs Aspi for High Temperature

To improve their response strategy, Tafarn Y Bugail conducted an on-farm comparison. Cows flagged with high temperature alerts were treated either with an injectable anti-inflammatory or with two Aspi boluses.

The goal was simple:

• Support long-term recovery and performance
• Stabilize body temperature
• Restore rumination quickly

Results: Sustained Temperature Control Matters

The trial highlighted clear differences between treatments:

• Injectable anti-inflammatories reduced temperature rapidly
  • However, the effect was short-lived
  • Within 24 hours, temperatures often increased again
• Aspi showed a slower but more sustained effect
  • Temperature decreased gradually
  • Cows maintained stable temperatures for longer
  • Fewer cases of recurring high temperature

This sustained stabilization is critical in dairy herd management, where recurring health issues can impact both milk production and fertility.

Why Rumination and Lying Time Are Key

Rumination in dairy cows is one of the most important indicators of health and performance. Alongside lying time, it directly influences:

• Feed intake
• Milk yield
• Fertility and return to cycle

When cows recover faster and return to normal eating behavior, they are better positioned to maintain production and overall health.

Conclusion: A Reliable Approach to Cow Health Management

Based on the trial results, Llyr Griffiths saw clear benefits in using Aspi as part of the farm’s health protocol. By supporting more consistent temperature control and improving recovery patterns, Aspi helps reduce repeated health events and supports optimal rumination.

For modern dairy farms, combining precision monitoring tools like smaXtec with effective intervention strategies is essential. This case study demonstrates how a more sustained approach to managing high temperature in dairy cows can lead to better outcomes—both in the short term and across the entire lactation cycle.