Organic and alternative livestock farmers often struggle to find veterinarians who practice non-conventional medicine. The Livestock Project recognizes the importance of giving a shout-out to veterinarians doing just that! This week, we would like to introduce you to Dr. Alaina Kringen-Scholtz (Dr. Lainie) of Twin Lakes Animal Clinic in Madison, South Dakota. Background Dr. Lainie … Read more
Spanish resources about common husbandry practices can be difficult to find for many farms with Hispanic managers or workers. Having resources readily available to your workers can be a huge benefit. Posting factsheets and protocols can make checking practices much easier. If you are looking to provide additional training to bilingual workers, check out the … Read more
For organic and alternative farmers, grazing animals is a large part of their feed program. Pasture is convenient and allows for diversified grazing of lands that may not be useful for raising crops. It is important to carefully manage your pastures to prevent overgrazing, soil depletion, and health problems. With proper care, your pastures can … Read more
Farming and ranching are incredibly demanding. Many producers spend their time taking care of their livestock and crops and dealing with the difficulties of such a large burden. It is important to recognize this job’s burden on farmers. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how they handle stress, work with others, … Read more
Ever wonder what they mean when they say immune compromised? It is important to understand to protect yourself, your loved ones, farm visitors, and workers. What does immunocompromised mean? Immune compromised means your immune system isn’t working as well as it should. This can happen for many different reasons. Factors like age or medical treatments, … Read more
Good nutrition is vital to keeping your livestock healthy and happy. Good nutrition directly impacts body condition score, fertility, and milk or egg productivity. A healthy diet also contributes to the ability of your livestock’s immune system to fight disease. Keep in mind your species, age, and health needs. Your climate is a factor too. … Read more
Most everyone has heard of rabies, especially as a danger to your pets. But rabies can affect your herd, your pets, and you. It is important to understand and take precautions to protect those important to you. What is rabies? Rabies is a preventable but dangerous disease. Rabies is deadly and affects all mammals, humans … Read more
Both large and small farms raise chickens, turkeys, ducks, and other birds for eggs. It is a great way for many to get children involved by giving them a job on your farm. Whether you enjoy eating farm-fresh eggs or selling them for additional income, proper handling techniques can help prevent foodborne illness. Often, it … Read more
Have you ever wondered why it isn’t the best idea to sneak a little cookie dough out of the bowl while making a batch? Why do diners put an asterisk by over-easy or sunny side up eggs? Or if the trend of drinking unpasteurized milk is all that safe? All of these foods have the … Read more
No matter the size of your herd or flock, diseases can be spread by animals in contact with each other and with you. How are diseases spread through direct contact? For a disease to be spread through direct contact, there must be a disease agent in the environment on an infected animal. Animals become exposed … Read more