Sometimes a newborn livestock baby just won’t nurse, and suddenly you’re the one on bottle duty! Whether a mom rejected her little one or a twin needs an extra boost, raising these bottle babies is a unique adventure full of wagging tails and 2:00 AM feedings. It might seem overwhelming at first, but with the … Read more
As spring quickly approaches, you may be wondering how to protect your newborn livestock from diseases. This post might help you better understand how immunity works and what you can do to help your newborns thrive. The Importance of Colostrum and Passive Immunity Unlike human babies, livestock are born with little to no immunity to … Read more
Deciding to go Organic Raising organic livestock isn’t for everyone. In a truly local food system where consumers know the farmer and their practices, going organic may not be necessary. Yet some farmers find going organic financially rewarding and in line with their and their customers’ values. This post gives a very brief description of the … Read more
A lot goes into keeping your equines healthy! This post describes some basic practices to help you provide the best care possible for the equine species on your farm. Did you know that equines include horses, donkeys, mules, miniature horses, hinnies, ponies, and even zebras! Basic Health Practices Feed and Water Water is the most … Read more
Lice in animals can be a common problem during winter. Many farmers deal with heavyinfestations that can cause unthriftiness, reduce weight gain, and lead to economic losses.Lice affect many livestock species, including cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, and goats.Different types of lice infect humans. Animals do not carry or spread human lice. What are lice? Lice … Read more
We are thrilled to announce the publication of the free book through the Iowa State University Press. The book was written by veterinarians Katie Steneroden, Jenna Bjork, and Delaine Quaresma, with contributions from experts in the organic and alternative livestock industry, government, extension, and producers themselves. About the Book The book originated as a continuing … Read more
Many farmers struggle to keep water troughs thawed during the winter months, when temperatures fall below freezing. No one wants to have to break the ice daily – it takes up valuable time that most farmers don’t have. In this post, we describe some simple and cost-effective ideas to ensure your livestock have access to … Read more
Honey has been used for its healing properties in humans and animals for over 4,000 years. Today, its use in human wound clinics is mainstream. Its use in veterinary medicine may not be as common, but its healing benefits, lower cost, and role in helping prevent antimicrobial resistance might make it a practice option worth … Read more
Bed bugs, or Cimex lectularius, are becoming more common in poultry facilities. Whether it’s a large commercial chicken house or the kind many people have in their backyards, it’s important to know what to look for and how to address the problem. Species Bed Bugs Infest Most commonly, bed bugs infest humans. However, they have … Read more
Small farms matter! Over the coming year, The Livestock Conservancy and the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State University will develop practical animal health information made for YOU. Together, we hope to create better tools for small farmers and especially breeders, to help keep animals healthy, and to know what to … Read more