9 Summer 2023 | Livestock Solutions
About the author Cathy Barnette, DVM is a veterinarian and freelance writer, based in Southwest Florida. After graduating
from the University of Florida in 2006, Dr. Barnette spent 14 years working in small animal general practice. Her current professional focus
is veterinary writing, creating educational content for veterinary teams and their clients. Dr. Barnette is a paid Consultant for Covetrus
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1. Felix, T. (2023). Transitioning Calves: From Pasture to Feedlot. PennState Extension. Retrieved from: https://extension.psu.edu/transitioning-calves-from-pasture-to-feedlot
2. Kim, M. H., Yang, J. Y., Upadhaya, S. D., Lee, H. J., Yun, C. H., & Ha, J. K. (2011). The stress of weaning influences serum levels of acute-phase proteins, iron-binding proteins, inflammatory
cytokines, cortisol, and leukocyte subsets in Holstein calves. Journal of veterinary science, 12(2), 151–157. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3104169/
3. Felix, T. (2023). Reducing Stress at Weaning. PennState Extension. Retrieved from: https://extension.psu.edu/reducing-stress-at-weaning
4. Wilke, K., Clark, H. (2022). Management, Health, and Nutritional Considerations for Weaning Calves. Nebraska Extension. Retrieved from: https://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/
html/g2057/build/g2057.htm
SUMMARY SUMMARY
Although producers may often take a do-it-yourself approach to herd health, a veterinarian
can add value in many ways. Work with producers to think outside the box, considering
strategies beyond just vaccination and parasite control when developing a herd health
program. In addition to streamlining processing, mitigating the effects of weaning shock,
and promoting optimal nutrition, you can aid producers in developing plans to address
biosecurity, recordkeeping, animal welfare, and a variety of other factors.
Working closely with a veterinarian will allow producers to reap financial rewards
associated with reduced morbidity, reduced mortality, and increased weight gain.
Herd Health in Weaned Calves
