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Develop a Barn Emergency Evacuation Plan
Farm
Disasters cannot be scheduled on a calendar, but the damage may be mitigated with advance planning. The American Red Cross suggests developing an emergency farm, barn and animal evacuation plan.
Cattle Nutrition During Winter
Livestock
Proper nutrition during the winter months is crucial for all livestock, including beef cattle. It’s estimated that winter feed makes up more than half of the annual cost of keeping a beef cow. Maybe you can’t tell the difference between 15 and 32 degrees F after spending a few minutes outside, but your cattle can. Slight changes in temperature can have a considerable impact on energy and cow nutritional requirements.
Helping Cattle Avoid Winter Mud Problems
Livestock
During wintertime, mud on a farm is inevitable and can cause a plethora of problems the longer it is around. From pasture issues to health problems with your cattle, mud can become a disaster. With some helpful tips, you can better preserve the condition of your pasture and make sure your bovine friends stay in perfect health through the winter months.
Drought Stressed Silage And Your Dairy Cows
Livestock
After a summer full of scorching temperatures and few rainy days you may wonder how hard did the drought hit the United States this year? The answer is hard, especially in the nation's corn belt where most states experienced extreme to exceptional drought statuses.
Pinkeye Control on Your Dairy Operation
Livestock
As pinkeye season approaches, it’s time for dairy producers to take preventive steps to control this contagious, costly disease. Pinkeye can negatively impact the production and overall health of dairy animals. Norm Stewart, D.V.M., M.S., Manager of Dairy Technical Services for Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, offers best management practices for preventing pinkeye.
Recognizing Heat Stress in Cattle
Farm
As summertime approaches, temperatures begin to rise, and the concern for heat stress in cattle grows. The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that 2021 was among the top six warmest years on record. It is suggested that 2022 will follow this trend. If that’s the case, it is strongly recommended to study and understand the signs of heat stress in cattle, to maintain a healthy herd throughout the summer season.
Recognizing Cold Stress in Cattle
Livestock
When winter weather arrives, cattle body composition can begin to drop along with the temperatures. Like all mammals, cows are warm-blooded and maintain their core temperature by keeping their metabolic rate high and conserving body heat with their hair or fur. Being able to recognize the warning signs of cold stress and take action is a key part to managing your cattle operation over winter.
Preventing Foot Rot in Cattle
Livestock
Foot rot is an extremely common problem for beef producers and hobby farmers and can occur in a variety of pasture and environmental conditions. In fact, up to 25% of all cattle lameness stems from foot rot, which can cause major concern.