Table 7 Summer herd management factors associated with bulk tank total bacterial score (TBS) on 400 Irish dairy farms, based on a multiple regression model

Milk recording practiced

Yes

9.87 (19)

0.037

0.0066

No

10.02 (23)

0.037

Cleanliness of claw piece

Clean

9.86 (19)

0.035

0.0138

Slightly dirty

9.92 (20)

0.035

Dirty

10.06 (23)

0.063

Cow tail management

Clip tails > once a year

9.86 (19)

0.034

0.0043

Clip tails ≤ once a year

10.02 (22)

0.039

Walk ways washed before milking

Tails ringed/cut

9.96 (21)

0.06

Yes

9.88 (20)

0.039

0.0067

No

10.01 (22)

0.033

Heated water in the pit

Yes

9.89 (20)

0.038

0.0090

No

10.00 (22)

0.034