Calf & Heifer Health
The economic impact of calfhood pneumonia
A calf barn housing 40 calves where 37.2% of the calves contract pneumonia can cost the farm as much as $16,960. To minimize pneumonia-related losses, farms should focus on ventilation, nutrition and sanitation.
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Platinum heifers won’t be dropouts
Patience and a focus on a long, productive life and 10-week milk are all key to raising heifers that freshen in well and thrive as cows.
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Three reasons genomic testing can help improve calf programs
Healthier, more productive replacement heifers begin in the calf barn. Since many farms do not need to raise every heifer, using genomic testing can help farms identify the calves with the most potential.
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Extended colostrum and transition milk feeding: Pros, cons and implementation
While the initial colostrum feeding is still essential, feeding colostrum or transition milk for multiple days can help protect calves during their most vulnerable stage, resulting in fewer sick calves and better development.
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5 steps to aid in dairy-beef crossbred growth and performance
Proper calf care and nutrition in the pre-weaning phase are the foundation for a successful dairy-beef crossbred program.
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Setting calves up for a long-term, successful immune system
Setting up a calf’s immune system from the beginning impacts both her short-term and long-term health. This includes vaccinating dry cows, ensuring passive transfer and developing vaccination and immunostimulant protocols that align with the farm’s heifer-raising goals.
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Leave the needle in the haystack: Rehydrate with an oral electrolyte
Scours causes 60% of pre-weaned calf deaths. Knowing how to correctly rehydrate a dehydrated calf and which product is necessary in each situation is essential to minimizing calf mortality.
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