1 November 2020
RECOVERY SHED IS ALSO IMPORTANT
What characteristics should the recovery shed have, in our opinion?
Let’s talk about some factors to consider when designing the construction or expansion of the recovery shed, which obviously must be looked at on a case-by-case basis, because as we always like to emphasise, each farm is as unique as each individual head, and it is right that the farmer first makes the choice that they deem best for their herd.
Recovery shed: what are the fundamental factors
For us, ventilation and light are always key elements, regardless of the construction material and size. A shed that is as open as possible, inclined and oriented in the right way, promotes good natural ventilation, at least where the external climatic conditions are favourable. Another thing not to be underestimated is indirect natural light that can be achieved with a little wisdom applied when the recovery shed for heifers is designed. All of this promotes a healthier environment that ensures higher performance.
How to design a recovery shed
Internal planning should be done taking into account the various periods of the year and their relative critical activities. In our opinion, it is better to think about dividing the shed into various boxes in order to organise dedicated feeding according to the various ages and based on growth, free access to the feeding lane and preferably direct access to the external paddock 24 hours a day.
Spending time outdoors promotes the heifer’s natural physiology, by allowing it to move freely on soft and uncemented ground, strengthens its structure and promotes its healthy growth, thus giving you a healthier cow in the future.
Check out some examples at https://www.antoniniduea.it/it/prodotti/farm-tunnel-per-bovini/