25 | Why Fencing, Hay, and Winter Prep Matter More Than Breed Choice - Homestead Dairy Part 2

Your pasture is ready and your fencing is up—now let’s talk shelter, gear, and what your milking space really needs to look like.

In Part 2 of our Homestead Dairy series, we’re digging into the practical setup: shelter, milking areas, must-have gear, and how to choose the right equipment for your setup. Whether you’re planning to hand milk or invest in a system, this episode is all about making your space functional, comfortable, and sustainable for the long haul.

Main Themes/Topics Covered:

• Shelter Needs – 3-sided shelters, milking spaces, and how to prep for storms and winter weather.

• Gear You Actually Need – From buckets and teat dip to strainers and towels.

• Milking Methods – Pros and cons of hand milking vs. mechanical systems (and what we use in a pinch).

• Next Steps – Researching breeds, sourcing healthy animals, and preparing for the right cow for your family are coming in the next episode.

Adding a cow means building systems that work for you. Start small, start smart, and create a setup that honors your capacity and grows with your homestead.

Got questions about milking setups or starting a micro dairy? I’d love to help. Email me at [e-mail] and let’s chat—it’s free.