4 years ago we went from paying for our herd share milk to operating a herd share. We had milked goats inn the past, but never owned a cow. We started with one older cow, we are now milking 5, and raising a steer a year. I can tell you,i milked 22 goats for 15 years on and off. There is a HUGE learning curve. Do not let that scare you tho. We started with 17 shares and are up to 80-85. Our cows are very sweet. NowNow there are rank Milkers. Ask to hand milk the cow. If she is dry handle her udder, she shouldn't kick or move. Its best if you do not know the history of the heard, to have the cow johnnes (yo-knees) tested. We love or milk. We have chosen all Jersey cows. They have a very high cream level, the cows are quiet and have sweet temperaments, and they are smaller. Hope this helps some
Tiffany