Years later, Endres, a University animal science professor, continues to spend her time with cows - now researching what makes them comfortable.

Her research has found a trend suggesting the more comfortable the cow, the more milk is produced, which for some cows could mean up to an extra gallon per day of production.

"It's a win-win," Endres said. "You're producing more milk while making the cows more comfortable."

As the number of Minnesota dairy farms has decreased in recent years, increasing milk production has become paramount, said Neil Broadwater, a University extension professor.

"Every year in recent history has shown a decline in the number of dairy farms," Broadwater said.

He said as dairy producers continue to increase the pounds of milk per cow per year, the cows have an increasing demand for comfort.

Read the full story in tomorrow's Daily.