This study shows that evaporative cooling during the entire dry period improved heat relief of pregnant cows, as demonstrated in their lower respiratory rate and body temperature, leading to improvement in their voluntary DMI, as compared with the NC cows. BCS of the cows was improved during the last 21 days before estimated calving, providing better energy resources for the adjacent calving and coming lactation. Consequently, the C cows were involved in fewer incidences of post parturient disorders, their calves' birth weight was higher, and their colostrum quality and quantity were improved. The improvement in BCS accompanied with an increase in mammary gland cell proliferation (HSL activity) of the C cows during the close up period, resulted in a significant increase of their milk and ECM production after calving.