Animal Health
All Animal Health Content
Minimizing the Neospora Threat by Using Serology in Beef Replacement Heifer Selection
Neospora caninum is one of the lesser-known causes of infectious reproductive failure in beef herds. It’s always possible for herds to encounter new Neospora infections in a given year, but in herds in which it’s already established, using Neospora serology can be one consideration in choosing replacement heifers.
Johne’s Disease Testing in Beef Herds: Testing Plans and Responses
While still somewhat imperfect, testing herd animals for Johne’s Disease is an appropriate tool for producers and their veterinarians to begin to get a handle on the level of infection and to implement sound strategies for limiting the disease’s effects.
Johne’s Disease Testing in Beef Herds: Looking at the Available Tests
Once thought to be a dairy cattle problem, Johne’s Disease is increasingly a topic of conversation for beef seedstock and commercial producers alike. An understanding of the Johne’s Disease testing options available is a good first step in devising a herd health plan.
COVID-19 and Livestock: Is there a connection?
When reports of the COVID-19 pandemic first hit the US, very few people had likely heard of coronaviruses—with some notable exceptions: cattle producers and their veterinarians.
Bigger Cattle. Warmer Weather. What Can Go Wrong?
The disruptions in the beef processing sector caused by COVID-19 continue to interfere with the orderly marketing of finished cattle. While we all hope that the situation is resolved quickly, the reality is that because the shipment of so many harvest-ready cattle has been delayed, there will be increased numbers of heavier cattle on feed for the foreseeable future.
Lessons From Alternative Calving Workshops
Recently, the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and SDSU Extension held workshops across the State focused on sharing information from experienced livestock producers who have switched to a calving date more in sync with nature.
Rancher’s Perspective on Challenging Heifers
This article will share a rancher’s perspective on challenging heifers during the breeding season in Northwestern South Dakota.
Managing Cattle Through Winter Weather Conditions
Winter weather conditions often present challenges to cattle managers in the Northern Plains. Although we can’t alter the weather, there are management steps that can be taken to help maintain cattle health and performance.
Dealing With Snowstorms for Cattle on Winter Range
Ranchers with cattle on winter pastures have a few management strategies to help them cope with the large snowstorms throughout the state.
How Does Cold Stress Affect the Energy Needs of Cattle?
Most beef producers understand that when the weather gets colder their cattle need more energy for maintenance. The questions are when do cattle start experiencing cold stress and then how much more energy do they need? Both the actual temperature and the wind speed interact to determine the effective temperature.