â¢ Dry period management did not affect culling rate for second-lactation cows, but a significantly higher culling rate occurred in multiparous cows with conventional dry periods compared to those with short dry periods. Lower incidence of metabolic disorders for second lactation, compared to third or later lactation cows in both groups. â¢ Cases of mild ketosis were lower for cows in the shortened dry period group. â¢ Occurrence of retained placenta was higher for second and later lactation cows in the short dry period.