Colostrum
While IgG concentration is important, cleanliness is an essential component of quality colostrum and one that is directly tied to colostrum management. To minimize bacteria growth, farms should ensure proper colostrum storage.
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Don’t lose your future genetics to calf scours
Scours is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in preweaned dairy calves. This can have major ramifications down the road, making it imperative that calves receive proper care from day one.
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'Raising the bar' with beef-on-dairy calves
With beef cattle population declining and continuing advancement in beef-on-dairy genetics, there is plenty of room for dairy producers to capitalize on producing high-quality beef-on-dairy animals.
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Extended colostrum and transition milk feeding: Pros, cons and implementation
While the initial colostrum feeding is still essential, feeding colostrum or transition milk for multiple days can help protect calves during their most vulnerable stage, resulting in fewer sick calves and better development.
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Setting calves up for a long-term, successful immune system
Setting up a calf’s immune system from the beginning impacts both her short-term and long-term health. This includes vaccinating dry cows, ensuring passive transfer and developing vaccination and immunostimulant protocols that align with the farm’s heifer-raising goals.
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Calf gut health and IgY antibodies
While IgGs might be the star of the show in colostrum, supplementing with IgYs could aid in lining the gut, adding an extra layer of defense through the first weeks of a calf’s life.
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Colostrum for calves with diarrhea? Exploring the potential of colostrum as an additional therapy
Calves with diarrhea could benefit from colostrum supplementation. Recent research shows that eight feedings over four days could reduce the disease to 2.75 days.
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3 standard calf care practices your calf grower wishes you knew and implemented
Adequate colostrum; a dry, clean environment; and effective navel care are essential to setting dairy-beef calves up for success. Supplying healthy calves can help farms stay competitive in today’s market.
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'Rookies' are your future: 3 tips for assessing their first year
Daily weight gain along with a healthy immune system can go a long way to meeting first-lactation goals and maximizing profitability.
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