Be aware and be proactive in adopting practical biosecurity measures when dealing with birds or poultry: these are things we can all do to help stop the spread of Avian Influenza in New Zealand. Limit contact with wild birds as much as possible: Wild birds are known carriers of AI and other diseases which can […]
The detection of Avian Influenza H7N6 strain marks a turning point for New Zealand’s poultry industry. While not as severe as the high-pathogenic H5N1 strain, the presence of avian flu in the country underlines the urgent need for poultry producers—whether small-scale farmers or large commercial operators—to strengthen their biosecurity practices. Avian Influenza (AI) is a […]
Have you ever felt like you keep doing all the things you’re supposed to when it comes to rearing calves but there’s little change to your production levels or farm profitability? Of course, rearing calves is just like any other kind of animal agriculture: “We’re managing biology for profit.” So, how can we manage calf […]
There’s a common misconception that calves should receive colostrum from their own mother (dam) or herd to ensure protection against any pathogens present on the farm where they were born. The fact is that high quality, whole, colostrum replacers will provide protection from diseases (anywhere in the world) and should be considered in any colostrum […]
Profitable dairy herds are built on a foundation of continuous improvement in efficiency and output. Cows which produce more milk per kilogram of feed consumed will inevitably be more profitable than less efficient animals. Similarly, herds which have a lower replacement rate are more profitable than herds with a higher replacement rate because rearing replacement […]
Minimising the moisture content of bedding in animal housing is important because increased moisture allows for increased microbial activity and potentially harmful levels of pathogens. Dry bedding also encourages resting – helping to support animal health, welfare and productivity. Cheap and readily available, limestone is often used to reduce moisture in animal bedding. However, the […]
In addition to Immunoglobulin G (IgG)*, which is essential for immunity and survival, whole colostrum provides antimicrobial factors, a range of hormones, growth factors, nutrients and even immune cells. Antimicrobial factors and immune cells from cows’ help protect the calf against disease and play an important role in supporting the immune system of the calf¹. […]
“Stalosan F is not overly expensive for what it does” says Calving Manager Nicole Woodford. She’s used the product in her calf sheds since 2014. Read more > For farmers managing herd homes or rearing lambs, calves, and goat kids, it’s important to provide an environment that protects the animal’s skin – which is their […]
We know that the consumption of high-quality colostrum as soon as possible after birth is imperative for the survival of the lamb and helps ensure optimal health and development. We also know that the immunoglobulin G (IgG) content of colostrum is the component essential for immunity. Unfortunately, there’s limited information available on the IgG content […]
Providing a newborn calf, lamb or kid with colostrum within 12 hours of birth is vital, we know that. And if maternal colostrum is unavailable or poor quality, a colostrum replacer can provide an essential alternative. So, how do you select a good colostrum replacer? Price is always a factor but remember that a product […]
