Optimum calf health: barn ventilation at Haldenhof

Challenge: Respiratory diseases in the calf barn

Martin Glökler, a farmer in the Black Forest and operator of the Haldenhof farm, was faced with a problem that many dairy farmers are familiar with: Respiratory diseases in calves. In the old calf barn, ammonia and germs collected directly at the breathing level of the young animals – an unfavorable environment for their sensitive respiratory tracts.

Calves in particular do not yet have a fully developed immune system. Especially in the first few weeks of life, they are particularly susceptible to lung diseases, which not only cause high veterinary costs, but also impair the animals’ performance in the long term. An optimal barn climate is therefore crucial for healthy rearing and a productive dairy cow of tomorrow.

Ventilation tube for fresh air & healthy calves

Martin Glökler opted for a tailor-made ventilation solution from Dr. Knopf & Oswald when the new calf barn was built in 2020. Together with the farmer, a ventilation hose system was planned that directs fresh air into the barn in a targeted manner.

How does the system work?

🔹The ventilation hose brings fresh, oxygen-rich air directly into the calf area.

🔹Harmful accumulations of ammonia and germs are continuously displaced.

🔹In addition, an exhaust air chimney was installed to efficiently extract the polluted stable air.

Conclusion: An investment in animal health & profitability

Thanks to the improved air quality in the new calf barn, Martin Glökler has noticed a significant reduction in respiratory diseases. His animals grow up healthier, develop more vitality and have better future prospects as productive dairy cows.

🔹 No more standing accumulations of harmful gases
🔹 Fewer respiratory diseases – lower veterinary costs
🔹 Better growing conditions for the calves

Optimum barn ventilation is not only a question of animal welfare, but also of economic efficiency. Healthy calves mean fewer losses, lower treatment costs and a better milk yield in the future.

Thanks to the tailor-made solution from Dr. Knopf & Oswald, a healthy barn climate was created at Haldenhof – for a strong and resilient next generation of dairy cows.