SMART CALF REARING CONFERENCE Dear attendees, healthy dairy calves are the future of the milking herd. Thus when developing rearing solutions focused on animal welfare and nutrition, it is increasingly important to know the natural needs of calves, to take them seriously and to implement modern innovations and management solutions. This requires a very close […]
Using Colostrum Replacer to Prevent Protocol Drift *Post contributed by Dr. Adam Geiger, Research Nutritionist | Lactation Physiologist | Calf Technical Consultant, Zinpro Corporation Just about every producer globally understands the importance of colostrum to the newborn calf. Most producers also know how important well-defined protocols are to calf performance and health. However, I have […]
Automated calf feeders are increasing in popularity with progressive dairy farmers who want to raise top-notch heifers by offering several benefits over manual feeding.
We are aware of the importance of that first milking colostrum in providing immune globulins (Ig) or antibodies as a source of protection from disease for the newborn calf. Feeding four quarts of clean colostrum with a low bacteria count as soon as possible after birth is the key to success. However, have we missed other benefits from feeding colostrum and the “transition” milk from the first to sixth milkings to calves during their first few days of life? Read more …
Cold weather had descended upon the northern hemisphere. One’s definition of winter can vary tremendously, but it is generally accepted that cold weather presents challenges for both equipment, facilities, calves and the people managing calves. Read more…
“If you aren’t using the 40-Fit option on you autofeeder, both you and your calves may be missing out!” Read more…