The Purebred Dairy Cattle Association (PDCA) Board of Directors has approved updates to the PDCA Show Ring Code of Ethics, Showmanship Guidelines, and Dairy Cow Unified Scorecard. These changes, the first in a decade, were finalized during the board’s December meetings.
“These updates help dairy youth exhibitors and official judges,” said outgoing PDCA Board President Neal Smith, who represents the Jersey Association. “Changes to the Unified Scorecard reflect the ideal characteristics of each dairy breed.”
The revised documents are available under the literature tab at www.purebreddairycattle.com. Key changes include:
Show Ring Code of Ethics:
- Maximum topline hair length increased from 1 inch to 1.5 inches.
- Rules clarified regarding teat setting, over bagging, and lactation misrepresentation.
Showmanship Guidelines:
- Clearer instructions on how the leadsperson should hold the halter strap.
- New guidelines on entering the show ring, setting up animals, and switching animals during competition.
Showmanship Evaluation Card:
- “Sidesteps when leading calf” now carries moderate discrimination.
- “Failure to stop and set up your animal at the judge’s request” also now results in moderate discrimination.
Dairy Unified Scorecard:
- “Rear Feet and Legs” category changed to “Feet and Legs” with the same 20% weight.
- Equal point values (seven each) assigned to rear and fore udder.
- Mature Cow in Milk Average Weights updated to match current breed standards.
- Holstein, Jersey, and Milking Shorthorn True Type images refreshed.
These updates take effect on March 1, 2025.
