Acute bovine pulmonary edema and emphysema are two lung conditions that can occur with sudden pasture changes
Acute bovine pulmonary edema and emphysema can occur when animals are suddenly changed from dry pastures to lush green ones or from dry hay to healthy pasture. Dr. Nathan Erickson of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan said problems arise from metabolism of certain proteins, when toxic products end up […] Read moreAuthor Archives
Newborn calves sometimes need CPR
Calves that aren’t breathing need their airways cleared and extra encouragement; artificial respiration is a last resort
In a normal, easy birth, the calf starts breathing as soon as the umbilical cord breaks and its face and nose are uncovered. But sometimes after a hard birth, the calf goes too long without oxygen and doesn’t start to breathe. If the cord started to detach during birth, it will die unless it starts […] Read more
Calming nervous heifers can help improve calving
Heifers are sometimes confused or indifferent toward their newborn calves. They may ignore their calf or kick when it tries to suckle, prompting the calf to try suckling other cows and causing further confusion. Dr. Andy Acton of Deep South Animal Clinic in Ogema, Sask., says heifers can be confused if suddenly moved into the […] Read more
More cattle producers opt for later calving season
There are many good reasons why later calving makes sense, but it can be challenging in dry years when pastures are of poorer quality
Deciding on the appropriate calving season for any given operation involves consideration of many factors. Whether it’s early calving in January-February, spring calving in March-April, births in the summer months or even fall, the choice hinges on climate, marketing goals, feed costs and availability, breeding season challenges and management constraints. Each producer must weigh pros […] Read more
Cold newborn calves may require special care
Rectal temperature and condition of the ears, tail and feet can help producers decide whether they should take action
Calves born during blizzards or cold weather become immediately chilled, and older calves may also suffer frostbite if they don’t have shelter. Any calf with a body temperature below 38 C needs warming. Dr. Steve Hendrick of the Coaldale Veterinary Clinic in Coaldale, Alta., says windbreaks and bedding can help prevent frostbite in baby calves […] Read more
Feed ration important in young bulls
Animals that are fed well during a critical six week window before weaning will reach puberty faster and be more fertile
Young bulls need more attention and care than mature bulls, according to Dr. John Kastelic, a veterinarian and professor of cattle reproductive health at the University of Calgary. “There’s a critical window of bull development from about six weeks of age up to weaning age. If bull calves are fed really well during that time, […] Read more
Bulls need special attention during winter
Lice protection, deworming , mineral supplements and access to clean, unfrozen water are ways to keep them in top shape
Bulls need as much winter care as cows do to ensure they are in top shape for the next breeding season and management depends on available facilities for keeping them separate from the cows. “Don’t forget to vaccinate them and provide the health care they need,” said Dr. John Kastelic, a professor in cattle reproductive […] Read more
Direct beef marketing not for ‘faint of heart’
Some producers sell into niche markets like natural, organic and grass fed, while some market beef themselves in a pasture-to-plate program. By selling direct to consumers, producers can set their own price and be better paid for their efforts. Dylan and Colleen Biggs of TK Ranch near Hanna, Alta., sell meat to customers who want […] Read more
