Will your calving pen protect the newborn calf from disease?

The calving area is the newborn calf’s first connection with the outside world therefore minimising its risk of contact with pathogens before the immune system has been fortified with colostrum must be a priority. During the birthing process, the calf is exposed to an array of microbes, some of which are provided by the cow […]
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Good management of cows in the dry period will reap benefits for their calves

Prioritising dry cow management in this important stage of a dairy cow’s production cycle will ensure the best outcomes for the dam and calf. As her due date approaches, there can be many challenges for the cow, not least a compromised immunity, especially in the final three weeks. By meeting all her needs in this […]
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Be properly prepared to prevent poor performance at calving

As spring approaches, so does the calving period on many farms. Putting in the effort now to plan for it, such as preparing all the essentials, will unquestionably make the job easier and more successful. As it is one of the busiest seasons for farmers therefore having a plan that works for everyone will minimise […]
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Top tips for minimising risk of cold stress in calves

Young calves can rapidly lose heat and this puts them at high risk of cold stress in their first month. A calf’s thermoneutral zone from birth to four weeks of age is between 10°C and 25°C, illustrated in Chart 1, adapted from Davis and Drackley (1998) When temperatures go below the calf’s lower critical limit, […]
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Dairy-Tech 2025 – 5th February 2025

Mark your calendars for Dairy-Tech on 5th February 2025 at Stoneleigh Park! This event is tailored for progressive dairy professionals of all herd sizes and system types, offering insights and tools to help your business stay informed, resilient, and efficient. Dairy-Tech is your platform to explore cutting-edge innovations, gain valuable industry knowledge, and connect with […]
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40th Anniversary AHDA Conference 27th-28th January 2025

Join us for the 40th Anniversary AHDA Conference on 27th-28th January 2025 at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole Hotel, NEC. With 50 exhibitor stands showcasing leading animal health organisations and a refreshed programme tailored for all attendees, this year’s event promises to be our most inclusive yet. Day one will feature key industry speakers sharing insights […]
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British Cattle Breeding Conference 20th-22nd January 2025

Join Us at the 2025 BCBC Conference – The Herd of the Future The British Cattle Breeders Conference returns from 20th-22nd January 2025 at the Telford Hotel & Golf Resort. This year’s theme, ‘The Herd of the Future,’ will focus on how innovative cattle breeding can balance rising food production demands with environmental sustainability. Expect […]
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Careful collection of colostrum and transition milk is critical for calf health

Colostrum and transition milk (TM) should always be at the forefront of calf rearers' minds. We are very aware of the importance and value of first milking colostrum for transferring IgG into the calf’s blood.
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The developing microbiome and calf health

The gut microbiome in calves is important for growth and health, and has a key role in nutrition, immune function, and gut barrier integrity.
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Dairy Day-Cork

21st November What to expect at Dairy Day 2024 Aidan Brennan previews what visitors can expect to see at Dairy Day on 21 November in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. https://www.farmersjournal.ie/what-to-expect-at-dairy-day-2024-843109
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