Health Column
Learn to become systematic
Milk the cows. Feed the cows. Feed the calves. Pick the sires. Catch cows in heat. Breed cows. Deliver calves. Treat cows. Milk the cows…
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Avoid a mastitis meltdown
I recently observed the economic collapse of several dairies brought about by contagious mastitis.
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What does time of calving tell us?
A recent review of the “Calving Management Manual,” a publication produced by veterinary researchers at Colorado State University, reminded me of the popular practice that dairy producers sometimes borrow from cow-calf producers.
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Set up vaccines for success
Whenever I see a vaccine fail to produce the benefits expected, I am presented with a teachable moment. In addition to explaining why vaccines can sometimes fail, I also take the opportunity to explain how producers can help tip the scales in their favor when it comes to vaccine success.
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What is the ideal culling rate?
After numerous meetings and roundtable discussions, I am certain of only one thing — when it comes to culling rates, no one agrees. Unfortunately, lenders and investors look closely at this number and can draw some improper conclusions unless the details are investigated.
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It’s time to rethink resting the rumen and udder
Recent research and producer initiatives have caused the industry to challenge conventional wisdom about the dry period.
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No cow left behind
Readers of this column know that I sometimes relate my experiences as a school board member to my experiences as a dairy veterinarian.
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A potential breakthrough in ensuring disease-free colostrum
In previous columns, I’ve preached the importance of not infecting the youngest members of your herd with pathogens that can cause contagious mastitis, Johne’s disease, viral disease and salmonellosis.
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Take a stand on antibiotic resistance
Resistance to antibiotics is a phenomenon that has been observed in bacterial populations ever since antibiotics were discovered.
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You can prevent hardware disease
It amazes me how I can go months without seeing a case of hardware disease, and then have several occur in a short period of time. I recently had a hardware problem at a local farm that reminded me how important it is to investigate a problem thoroughly before recommending preventive measures, and to follow up to check on compliance.
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Intestinal disease on the rise
Recent discussions among dairy veterinarians and herd owners suggest that "jejunal hemorrhagic disease," or "intestinal hemorrhagic syndrome," is on the rise.
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- Heat stress in dairy calves
- AFBF president issues statement on U.S.-EU trade negotiations
- Buckle your seatbelt for the House consideration of the farm bill
- Study: Federal milk marketing order helps Calif. producers
- Ag markets were generally mixed overnight trading
- Winterkill losses put pressure on forage supplies
