Evaluation of linear dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid teat dip under experimental challenge.

Linear dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid at 1.94% was evaluated as a teat dip in two experimental challenge trials. Each trial was 4 wk, and a half udder design was used. In the first trial the product reduced incidence of intramammary infection with Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29740) by 82.5%. Incidence of infection with Streptococcus agalactiae (ATCC 27956) was reduced nonsignificantly 19.5%. Ineffectiveness was attributed to challenge with Streptococcus agalactiae at concentrations higher than previously used. In a second trial of only Streptococcus agalactiae, infections were reduced 56.9%; concentrations of challenge suspensions were those routinely used.