Working Ranch Magazine January/February 2025

lower Body Condition Score (BCS). Heifers are still growing and are stressed by pregnancy. Old cows have had their peak production but may continue to have a decent calf every year. Older dams may not be in the best condition, and their colostrum may be subpar. Colostrum quality is critical in the calf’s immune system, espe cially in the first eight hours.” Another significant aspect of the prevention and treatment plan is a good working relation ship with a herd veterinarian. When health issues arise in a herd, the veterinarian can write prescriptions for antibiotics. This professional also knows the herd, the operator’s production goals, Not If, But When

JOSIE ALEXANDER

ORIGINAL

Often Copied - Never Duplicated DESIGNED ON THE RANCH - TESTED IN THE ARENA You are known by the horse you ride and the trailer you pull – Customize your trailer with options Check our website for a list of options and trailer models

and ranch issues, enabling him to make decisions more quickly. Basic management strategies include monitoring newborns. As soon as a rancher spots scours, separate infected animals from newborns or other healthy calves to prevent the spreading of infection. Keep the area as clean as possible. Let that area rest if possible, or put only older calves that have immu nity established back into the area. “Provide medicated feeds or medi cated water to older calves, Van Emon advises. “Have a calving box ready, electrolytes and colostrum on hand. “Plan accordingly as best you can. Work with university interns to make flow charts on what decisions are being made on treatments or movement patterns so everyone is on the same page. “Calves are worth a lot of money right now,” Van Emon concludes. “The more you can keep them healthy, the better the paycheck will be.”

WWW.SWIFTBUILTTRAILERS.COM Swift dealers standing by to help you join the pipe trailer revolution VISIT US TODAY! WWW.SWIFTBUILTTRAILERS.COM SWIFT BUILT TRAILERS | 970-631-7453

44 I JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2025 WORKING RANCH audited readers run 21 million head of beef cattle.