This chapter serves as an introduction to the concepts of dairy herd health. Topics discussed include the reasons for improving the health of farmed livestock, definition of herd health, practical implementation of herd health (appreciating client aspirations, establishing farm-specific goals, measuring performance and setting targets, importance of data recording and analysis, structure of the herd health visit and charging for herd health) and other factors to consider for successful implementation of a herd health programme (training of farm staff, cow's environment and relevance of genetics in herd health).

Areas in which dairy farming can interact with the environment are outlined, and ways in which adverse effects can be limited are discussed in this chapter. A background on food security, energy security and climate change is provided. The impacts of dairy farming on the atmosphere and climate change, water and biodiversity and local ecology are presented as well as the promotion and enforcement of environmental protection. The influence of increased efficiency and improved health and reproduction on the reduction of dairy farming impact on the environment is also discussed.