What type of flooring is best for these livestock buildings?

The choice of flooring depends on the species, but concrete pads or well-compacted hardcore are common for easy cleaning and drainage. Ensuring a slight fall in the floor prevents moisture build-up and keeps bedding dry for longer periods.

How is air quality maintained in a fabric-covered structure?

The design allows for excellent airflow through eaves and ridge vents, which prevents the build-up of ammonia and heat. This natural ventilation is far superior to traditional low-roof sheds, significantly reducing the risk of pneumonia in young stock.

Can the interior layout be changed after the building is installed?

Yes, because the interiors are clear-span with no central columns, you have total freedom to move gates and pens. This allows you to reconfigure the space for different livestock or storage needs as your requirements change over the seasons.

Do these buildings require significant maintenance over time?

Maintenance is very low compared to timber or tin sheds. The steel is galvanised to prevent rust, and the fabric covers are designed to resist UV damage and tearing. A simple annual check of the tensioning is usually all that is needed to ensure longevity.

Are these structures suitable for extreme wind or snow loads?

Yes, each building is engineered to meet specific site requirements, taking into account local wind speeds and snow probabilities. This bespoke engineering ensures the building remains secure even in the most exposed Australian rural environments.

Modern dairy housing that reduces vet bills

Support healthier herds and lower veterinary costs with advanced livestock housing that improves airflow, hygiene, and comfort.

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Veterinary bills are one of the most significant ongoing expenses for dairy farmers. From respiratory infections and hoof diseases to calving complications, these costs often stem from issues linked to housing conditions. Fortunately, investing in modern dairy housing is one of the most effective ways to improve herd health and reduce reliance on reactive vet care.

Modern housing isn't just about shelter; it's about creating an environment that supports productivity, hygiene, and long-term well-being for your livestock. Traditional or makeshift housing often lacks the ventilation, drainage, and layout needed to keep animals healthy year-round. In contrast, purpose-built structures like McGregor Agri Span offer breathable designs, cleanable interiors, and space-efficient layouts that actively prevent illness and injury.

We’ll outline how modern dairy livestock housing reduces veterinary costs and explore why McGregor’s Agri Span system is an ideal fit for UK dairy farmers looking to build more resilient, cost-effective operations.

How can modern dairy housing reduce vet costs?

Improved airflow reduces respiratory issues

One of the most common reasons for dairy vet calls is respiratory illness caused by poor ventilation. Modern housing systems are designed with passive ventilation methods, like the stack effect, that constantly circulate air throughout the structure. This airflow removes excess moisture, ammonia, and pathogens, creating a fresher environment with cleaner, oxygen-rich air. With better air quality, cows are less prone to respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis, reducing the need for antibiotics, treatments, and follow-up vet visits that can quickly add up in cost and time.

Clean, dry floors prevent hoof problems

Hoof problems like digital dermatitis or foot rot can severely impact a cow’s mobility, milk production, and overall well-being, and treating them can be costly. Wet, dirty floors are the biggest contributor to these issues. Modern dairy housing addresses this by using sloped, well-drained flooring systems and materials that are easy to clean. Dry bedding and good underfoot conditions reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and lower the risk of injury. Fewer hoof-related illnesses mean fewer emergency callouts, improved productivity, and significantly reduced long-term vet expenses.

Better calving conditions lower intervention rates

Calving complications can quickly turn into emergencies requiring veterinary assistance, particularly in cramped, unhygienic, or stressful environments. Purpose-built dairy housing includes designated calving areas that are clean, dry, and spacious, reducing stress for the cow and lowering the chances of dystocia (difficult births). Better visibility and access also allow for early detection of problems by staff, decreasing the need for intensive vet intervention. With calmer births and healthier calves, farms can cut down on vet bills and improve long-term herd productivity.

Temperature control reduces heat stress

Cows are highly sensitive to temperature extremes, particularly heat. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can reduce appetite, lower fertility rates, and suppress the immune system, all of which can trigger costly veterinary interventions. Modern dairy housing is designed with features like open sides, breathable roofing, and strategic ventilation that moderate internal temperatures naturally. By preventing overheating and promoting thermal comfort, these systems help maintain milk yields and reduce vet costs associated with heat-related health issues and production loss.

FAQs

How does good dairy livestock housing reduce the need for vets?

Well-designed dairy livestock housing reduces disease risks by improving air quality, hygiene, and comfort. Cows in clean, well-ventilated environments are less likely to develop respiratory infections, hoof problems, or stress-related illnesses.

Can Agri Span be used for all stages of dairy production?

Yes, Agri Span is flexible enough for calving, milking, feeding, and resting areas. Its modular layout can be adapted to meet your operation’s size and needs, offering appropriate environments throughout the dairy cycle.

Is Agri Span suitable for both temporary and long-term use?

Absolutely. While designed for rapid deployment and relocation, Agri Span’s robust materials and weatherproof build make it suitable for both short-term and permanent dairy livestock housing solutions.

Do I need planning permission to install Agri Span?

Depending on local regulations and site use, you may or may not need permission. However, since Agri Span is re-deployable and doesn’t require permanent foundations, it typically faces fewer planning barriers than traditional buildings.

How long does Agri Span take to install on-site?

Installation usually takes three to four days after delivery. Its prefabricated components and simple assembly process allow for quick setup using your own team or McGregor’s expert installers.

Why is McGregor Agri Span ideal for modern dairy livestock housing?

When it comes to livestock housing that supports healthy, high-performing herds, McGregor Agri Span is a purpose-built solution backed by decades of livestock housing expertise. Here’s why it stands out for dairy farmers seeking fewer vet bills and more efficient operations.

Designed for natural airflow and low moisture

Agri Span uses the natural stack effect to circulate fresh air throughout the structure, preventing heat build-up and removing harmful gases like ammonia. This passive system creates dry, clean air with low moisture, reducing the risk of respiratory and hoof issues.

Rapid deployment for urgent housing upgrades

Whether you're dealing with overcrowding, expanding your herd, or responding to a weather event, Agri Span is ready when you are. Manufactured in the UK and held in stock, units can be delivered quickly and installed in just 3–4 days to meet urgent animal housing needs.

Relocatable and redeployable across seasons

Agri Span’s non-permanent design makes it easy to dismantle and move. This is ideal for seasonal herd management or farms needing flexibility in land use. It also means you can adapt your housing to match changing veterinary recommendations without rebuilding from scratch.

Built for UK weather protection

Agri Span is fully compliant with BS 6399 and EN 13782 for wind and snow loadings. Its sturdy frame and weatherproof materials ensure year-round durability, keeping your animals sheltered and safe from the elements, and avoiding vet visits related to exposure or stress.

Welfare-focused, vet-friendly design

Every Agri Span structure is designed with animal well-being in mind. From the light-diffusing roof that mimics natural daylight to the dry, well-ventilated interiors, the design encourages better herd behaviour and reduces the need for emergency veterinary intervention.