Animal Health

All Animal Health Content

several cattle standing and sitting by a windbreak

Cold Weather Management Options

Winter weather conditions impact cattle as well as the cattle producers. Cold temperatures combined with wind creates more stress and increased management to achieve similar animal performance.

Navel Dips for Lambs and Kids

Treating umbilical cords with a navel dip at birth is recommended to ensure a healthy start for lambs and kids and preventing the occurrence of navel (joint) ill.

Two farm cats in the snow near a farm structure.

Cat Death Losses Due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in South Dakota

Veterinarians and laboratory diagnosticians are fielding reports of death losses in cat populations linked to avian influenza infections.

Two animal disease researchers analyzing samples in a lab.

Swine Foreign Animal Disease Preparation: A reflection through the legacy of Gord Downie

The threat of foreign animal disease outbreaks demands preparedness, rapid response, and a community-wide effort to mitigate damage. Interestingly, the legacy of musician Gord Downie offers a framework for approaching these issues with urgency, empathy, and a forward-looking perspective.

Rancher and veterinarian having a discussion near a cattle feed bunker.

Salt Toxicity: Water Deprivation

Salt toxicity is a result of either a high concentration of salt in a diet or water deprivation. Learn how to recognize its symptoms and work with your veterinarian to prevent it from impacting your animals.

blades of brome grass with a brown to black, thumbnail-shaped growth on one of the blades.

Ergot: A Potential Livestock Poisoning Problem

Cool, damp weather followed by warmer temperatures favors grasses becoming infected with ergot bodies, which can cause a certain kind of poisoning that can affect cattle on pasture.

Monitor Livestock, Pets and Yourself for Eye Gnat Activity

While being outside this week, I noticed a lot of small gnats flying around my legs and really bothering my dogs. I caught a few and identified them as eye gnats. Although this pest is considered a nuisance in most cases, it is capable of transmitting diseases and pathogens.