Meet Todd Mancer, contract milker at Kakahu Downs in North Canterbury, managing 850 cows. Over time, he has developed a clear, practical approach to mastitis management that fits into his day-to-day routine.
At Kakahu Downs, Snapshot bulk tank testing is used to help identify mastitis root causes, Herdscreen provides cow-by-cow insight into contagious mastitis, and FCDC – Fresh Cow Dry Cow is used for on-farm testing of individual cases. “It sounds like a lot at first,” Todd says, “but once you start, it’s just another step in your day.”
This approach allows Todd to better manage udder health, identify which cows actually need treatment, and choose the most appropriate response. As a result, he has been able to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use while maintaining herd health.
Support has also played an important role. “Natasha and her team are always just a text, message, or call away,” Todd says. That access to guidance helps him make informed decisions and stay focused on running the farm efficiently.
Through consistent routines, targeted testing, and trusted support, Todd has built a mastitis management system that works for his herd—delivering results without adding complexity to the day.
It’s changed the way we use antibiotics, especially at dry-off.