Originally published in 1966, this work by G. E. Fussell is a thorough examination of the role played by the English dairy farmer over the past four hundred years. Beginning his study with the cow he gives an account of the improved breeding and feeding methods that make today's cow a totally different beast to that of the Tudor farmer. A chapter is devoted to the cultivation of fodder crops and another to the comfort of the cow for, as the author states, pleasant conditions are an important factor in encouraging its productivity. The dairy industry, no less than any other in the nineteenth century, was the scene of numerous devices and inventions designed to improve milking methods. This, together with the development of the sale of milk in a liquid form, is discussed in later chapters. The practical difficulties of transporting milk had until about 1850 caused the major part of the milk produced to be turned into butter and cheese and the varying products of differing regions are fully described. Towards the end of the nineteenth century, however, the number of dairies prepared to retail milk grew in number to accommodate an ever increasing rate of milk consumption. Numerous farming textbooks published during the period and contemporary descriptions of the farming scene form the background for this scholarly appraisal. No other book has treated the English dairy farmer in such detail and, in drawing upon such a wealth of illustrative material to support his conclusions, G. E. Fussell has produced a work which will be valued by all agricultural historians.

A unique look at the vanishing way of life on a British Dairy Farm

The principles behind such common problems as mastitis, infertility and lameness are explained in detail and linked to effective control programmes. The same approach is taken towards a full range of potential cattle disorders, broadly grouped according to age and development of the animal from the young calf to the adult. Already the standard text for a wide range of college course throughout the world, the considerable increase in detail makes this full colour and updated third edition an essential tool in the daily fight to keep intensely managed stock in first-class condition and to optimise productivity. For the farmer, it is an invaluable tool in dealing with the sick animal.

This lively trip to the dairy farm introduces calves, heifers, and milkers.

The failing economics of the traditional small dairy farm, the rise of the factory mega-farm with its resultant pollution and disease, and the uncertain future of milk

Incorporating HC 971-i-iv, session 2008-09