The calving season comes with many unknowns, including weather, timing, and much more. Livestock producers also know you can rarely predict when cows will calve – though it usually seems to coincide with poor weather. Being prepared can make the difference in having a live or a dead calf. It is also important to know … Read more
For many farms, effective reproduction is crucial for success. Keeping your animals healthy and able to reproduce increases productivity and improves the herd’s overall health. Good reproduction management results in higher birth rates, healthier young animals, and a more efficient herd. Open livestock, which are females that are not pregnant, are common on farms. While … Read more
The Center for Food Security and Public Health would like to hear from you, with your participation assisting with guiding resource creation about ticks, mosquitos, mites, and other arthropods of veterinary health concern. Take this short, 5-minute survey here. No matter the time of year, insects can be challenging on farms. Ticks, flies, mites, and … Read more
Especially during the summer heat, your livestock can be easily stressed and more prone to illness. Supportive therapies, such as electrolytes and fluid therapy, can assist with keeping animals healthy. Electrolytes can be crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of livestock, especially those with weakened immune systems or dehydration. Electrolytes can be used for … Read more
No matter the type of farm, lameness in livestock can happen at any time without any warning. Lameness can be a significant concern and one of the costliest diseases farmers can deal with. Organic and alternative farms prioritize animal welfare, natural living conditions, and minimize the use of chemicals and antibiotics, which can present unique … Read more
The United States is almost two months past the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) on dairy farms. The disease was first detected in the Texas Panhandle and has now spread to eight more states. Since then, there have also been two cases of HPAI in humans, most likely spread from contact on … Read more
Over the past ten years, A2A2 milk has continued gaining popularity with consumers, dairy cattle farms, and producers. A2A2 milk is marketed differently in stores, claiming it is easier to digest and improves health. Some dairy cattle farms select genetics that include the A2A2 gene to develop a completely A2A2 herd. Understanding what the A2 … Read more
As many may have heard, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been found in dairy cattle in multiple states around the United States. Dairy cattle on a farm in Texas first showed unusual symptoms, including an unexpected drop in milk production, thick colostrum-like milk, and changes in manure consistency. On March 25, 2024, the United … Read more
Attention to animal health is important when raising livestock. On organic and alternative farms, it may be even more critical. Due to the limited use of antibiotics and often smaller size, disease introduction and spread can be especially damaging. One tool you can use to help monitor and maintain the health of your livestock is … Read more
Heritage breeds developed over generations and reflect the rich history of livestock. Heritage breeds were bred to keep traits that helped them to adapt to their environment, farming practices, and purpose. Some heritage breeds are currently threatened and facing extinction. Genetic Traits Today, heritage livestock breeds today retain many traits that allow them to survive … Read more