The sharp rise in temperature in recent days is seeing more farmers reporting stock being uncomfortable in sheds. The degree to which this is being reported is being influenced by shed design and, in particular, how good airflow and ventilation are.

In some cases, the current issues are highlighting a problem which may have always existed but is now more visible due to the unusually high temperatures.

The precise recommendations on ventilation can be read here. In some cases, significant changes will be required which may not be possible now with animals housed, but it should serve to put shed alterations on top of the agenda once possible.

Some short-term changes which may provide a temporary reprieve are outlined below:

Removing side sheeting: Vented sheeting installed on many sheds under the Farm Waste Management scheme is not sufficient to provide enough airflow. The new TAMS scheme has recognised this and vented sheeting can only be applied to a given height, with an open air inlet above this height. Some farmers have found removing a number of side sheets has worked well in improving the volume of air flowing into the shed. In some cases, space boarding or a wind breaker have been applied as a longer-term solution.

Improving air outlets:The volume of air entering the shed will also be directly influenced by the rate at which stale air can exit the shed. I was in a shed yesterday where there is spaced sheeting in the roof and no main canopy along the ridge. Installing a canopy is obviously a big job and a way this farmer has temporarily improved airflow out of the shed is removing a number of sheets of solid galvanise in the gable at the top of the eaves. This had improved airflow, but it must be pointed out that safety precautions need to be taken when working at a height. The farmer in question has access to a hoist which made this possible.

Opening doors: Opening doors will also improve airflow, but remember that any steps taken should not result in draughts. If doors in creep areas are being left open at night, taking steps like putting a row of bales along the opening to prevent draughts on calves at a low height may help.

Access to outside yards/fields: Some sheds are designed with access to outside yards and may provide scope to let a number of animals from a pen into this area. Take note again of safety, as animals released will have a new lease of life. The most suitable animals to let out are weanlings or cows. Avoid mixing animals penned separately and do no release bulls or finishing animals. There may be scope to let autumn-born calves have access to an adjoining field during the day.

Clipping the backs of animals: Clipping the backs of animals will provide some reprieve in reducing heat stress, but is only practical for some farmers with access to a clippers and convenient handling facilities.

Concerns around lice

The presence of lice will compound issues with high temperatures in sheds. Once established in sheds, lice will spread quickly, with animals becoming stressed and agitated. There are numerous routes of treatment, from pour-on to injectable products, to spray products. Products that allow treatment by applying to one spot only may provide convenience by being able to treat quiet animals along a feed barrier while eating. Read manufacturer’s guidelines carefully and take note if the product has a residual action or if re-treatment is required.

Monitoring animals regularly and identifying any signs of problems early is critical in preventing a disease outbreak in a shed. The Journal vet’s guide to vaccination use may have a role to play.

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